2007 SEASON OFFICIALLY OPENS FOR SASKATCHEWAN’S PROVINCIAL PARKS

Saskatchewan’s provincial parks will officially open services for the summer season on Thursday, May 17.

“We are blessed to have one of the best parks systems in Canada,” Environment Minister John Nilson said.  “A park visit is a great way to discover the wealth of natural and cultural resources of our province.  Last summer the parks system had an excellent summer, with near record visitation of over 2.5 million visits, and our parks continue to be major tourist attractions.  I invite each of you to visit a park this summer and make your own discoveries.”

Each park showcases specific natural or historic features and offers a range of visitor services and recreational and educational opportunities.  Today the provincial parks system includes 34 provincial parks, eight historic sites, 130 recreation sites and 24 protected areas and encompasses 1.4 million hectares.  Saskatchewan’s provincial parks are open year round; however, most summer vacation services begin the Victoria Day long weekend.

Last year, with the injection of $3 million in capital funding, a variety of improvements were made to the parks system.  For example, park visitors will see expansion of campground electrification at Saskatchewan Landing, Meadow Lake and Echo Valley.  The boat launch was replaced at Moose Mountain and Lac La Plonge, along with improved boat/water access.  A new green campground was developed at First Mustus in Meadow Lake Provincial Park.

Parks staff will be introducing a new “green” focus to the interpretive programming throughout the parks system.  Park visitors will learn how they can reduce their footprint when camping in our parks or at home.

Cultural resource management continues to be an important area of the parks system.  Park visitors will notice enhanced conservation of the archaeological resources at St Victor Petroglyphs.  Fencing will be erected to limit pedestrian and vehicle access so features are not damaged.  The 125th anniversary of the settlement at Cannington Manor will be commemorated this summer.

A variety of special events will be held throughout the summer, especially during Saskatchewan Parks Week (July 15-21).  Saskatchewan Express will also be performing in seven park locations.

Parks staff are working hard to get all potable water systems started up for the season, prior to the May long weekend.  Frost conditions sometimes prevent this in northern parks.  To find out the status of the water system in any of Saskatchewan’s parks, call the park directly or check the Parks website at www.saskparks.net.

For more information on Saskatchewan’s provincial parks, pick up a copy of the 2007 Saskatchewan Parks Guide available at any Environment office or visit our web site at www.saskparks.net.

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For more information, contact:

Michele McEachern
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0412
Email: michele.mceachern@gov.sk.ca