Wildlife Encounters Encouraged as Salmonier Nature Park Reopens

Newfoundland and Labrador wildlife can once again be experienced in a unique setting, as Salmonier Nature Park reopens for the 2010 season. Since 1977, the park has hosted more than one million visitors who have come face-to-face with wildlife and the environment on which it depends.

"Salmonier Nature Park is a very unique attraction in our province, providing an opportunity to experience a three-kilometre hike along beautiful boardwalk trails to view a variety of Newfoundland and Labrador wildlife," said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation. "The park plays an important role in environmental education and wildlife conservation and rehabilitation in Newfoundland and Labrador. For residents and tourists, the park is a popular and memorable experience built around displays of species found in the province in a natural setting."

A number of special events are scheduled throughout the summer, including Family Fun Days on the third Saturday of June, July and August and activities to celebrate Canada Day on July 1. Park staff will also host Seniors' Days on June 16, July 21 and August 18. On these days, seniors are encouraged to visit the park where they will receive a guided tour followed by a picnic lunch provided by the Friends of Salmonier Nature Park, and a live animal presentation.

The park will be open seven days a week, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. until September 6 (gates close at 5:00 p.m.). From September 7 until October 11, the park will be open seven days a week, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (gates close at 3:00 p.m.). Admission to the park is free. Schools interested in bringing students to Salmonier Nature Park should contact park staff to make the necessary arrangements.

The Williams Government announced approximately $1.6 million in Budget 2010: The Right Investments — For Our Children and Our Future to support the development and construction of new maintenance, rehabilitation and visitor services buildings, as well as enhancements to trails and visitor experiences at the park.

"We made a significant investment in this year's Budget which will result in an array of improvements for this facility," said Minister Johnson. "It will go far in helping establish the park as a leading centre for environmental education, wildlife care and nature-based tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador."

In addition to the park's onsite programs, the Becoming an Outdoors Woman program is scheduled for June 11, 12 and 13 at Burry Heights on the Salmonier Line.

For more information on Salmonier Nature Park, to book a school tour, or to learn more about the Becoming an Outdoors Woman program, visit www.gov.nl.ca/env/snp or call 709-229-7888.

- 30 -

Media contact:
Melony O'Neill
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 689-0928
moneill@gov.nl.ca

2010 06 02                    10:05 a.m.