ESTERHAZY OPENS POTASH INTERPRETIVE CENTRE WITH WEPA FUNDING

The history of potash in Saskatchewan will soon be part of the tourist circuit, thanks to a new learning facility in Esterhazy.

The Saskatchewan Potash Interpretive Centre opened its doors today. The evolution of the potash industry from early mechanical mining to high-tech robotic and remote control mining, and from the tunnels to the markets will be explained through interactive displays and exhibits.

"The development of our potash resources has played an important part in Saskatchewan's history," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "Through this new facility, Esterhazy will become potash central, as tourists come here to learn about potash's dynamic story."

Saskatchewan's potash industry employs over 6,000 people in direct and indirect jobs and generates annual revenues in excess of $2.7 billion.

"The potash industry's significant contribution to Saskatchewan's past, present and future is being brought to light for area residents and visitors," Yorkton Melville Member of Parliament Garry Breitkreuz said on behalf of the Carol Skelton, Minister of National Revenue and Minister of Western Economic Diversification. "This industry's history will now provide economic tourism benefits today."

"Since potash mines are not regularly open to visitors for underground tours, the centre is designed to make people feel how it is to work in the mines," Interpretive Centre Chairman John Nightingale said. "One of our goals is to better communicate to the public how potash is extracted and used."

The new centre will teach visitors about the importance of air quality in a mine, the milling process, potash's uses in agriculture and its contribution to plant growth. They will also learn about other products that are manufactured with potash such as soaps, dyes, glass, drugs and electronics.

The centre, located in the 15 acre Esterhazy Historical Park, cost about $550,000. The Government of Saskatchewan provided funding through the federal-provincial Western Economic Partnership Agreement (WEPA). Remaining funding came from the potash industry and individual donations.

Signed in September 2003, the Canada-Saskatchewan Western Economic Partnership Agreement focuses on increasing the competitiveness and productivity of Saskatchewan's economy. The agreement funds initiatives that develop Saskatchewan's small- and medium-sized business sector, support economic and technological innovation, assist in economic diversification and increase Aboriginal participation in the economic mainstream.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-1691 Email: rellis@ir.gov.sk.ca	Mike Winterburn Office of the Minister Ottawa Phone: (613) 995-2960
Heather Waldern Hinds Western Economic Diversification Saskatoon Phone: (306) 975-5475 Email: Heather.Hinds@wd-deo.gc.ca