Environment and Conservation
June 2, 2010
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.
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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. |