FORBES TAKES PART IN STANLEY MISSION CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS

Saskatchewan Environment Minister David Forbes joined 31 teams of paddlers participating in the 2005 Saskatchewan Centennial Canoe Quest in a centennial celebration at Stanley Mission in Lac La Ronge Provincial Park.

As well as taking part in the Canoe Quest celebrations, a plaque recognizing the province's $355,000 investment to improve the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Stanley Mission Historic Site, renewed canoe route portages and litter clean up on the Churchill River was unveiled.

"We are pleased and proud to dedicate these facilities to the people of Saskatchewan. These improvements will ensure park visitors will experience and enjoy an important piece of this province's history," Forbes said. "We can look back on Saskatchewan's past with pride and a sense of accomplishment and forward with confidence and optimism for what the future holds for our province and our people."

The repairs to the church included the roof, repainting the exterior and improving the staircase from the dock to the church. Funding also allowed for canoe route portage renewals at Frog and Rapid River, as well as litter clean up on the Churchill River from Otter Lake to Trade Lake.

Through the four-year, $120 million Centenary Fund program, the parks program received $6.8 million so important capital projects could be completed for Saskatchewan's Centennial.

Saskatchewan's provincial parks celebrate our diverse natural and cultural heritage and are an important legacy for future generations. Each park highlights specific natural or historic features and offers a range of recreational and educational opportunities.

Throughout the centennial year, Saskatchewan will continue to host a variety of special events and initiatives in celebration of the province's centennial. Check out the special centennial section at www.saskparks.net for additional centennial events.

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For More Information, Contact:

Sharon Wood Environment Regina Phone: (306) 787-9573