2003 SEASON OFFICIALLY OPENS FOR SASKATCHEWAN PROVINCIAL PARKS

Saskatchewan provincial parks officially open services for the summer season on the May long weekend, in conjunction with Wide Open Week (May 12th to 16th).

"Saskatchewan's provincial parks and recreation sites offer services and activities for everyone," Environment Minister Buckley Belanger said. "Wide Open Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the beauty of our diverse park lands. We are fortunate in this province to have such a wealth of natural and cultural resources to enjoy."

Visitors will continue to find new and improved facilities this season. Several parks have new program centres to help provide interpretation and education to park visitors. There are also more electrified campsites and full-service campsites designed to accommodate RVs, as well as many other new or renovated facilities.

Although Saskatchewan's provincial parks are open year round, most vacation services begin the Victoria Day long weekend. However, all services may not yet be available in some parks. To assure the safety of all users, in parks where water lines are frozen or not properly flushed out and tested for safety, drinking water advisories have been put in place until water quality can be assured.

Some parks may be closed until the water systems are working properly, while in other parks, visitors should bring drinking water with them. Saskatchewan Environment will issue updates over the next week.

People wanting to find out about the status of the water system or drinking water advisories in the parks are asked to call the park directly or check the Parks Website at www.saskparks.net. Updates will be posted at the parks as well.

Park entry and camping fees remain the same as last year, and there are several ways to save money on park fees. June 25th and August 13th will be "Free Park'n Wednesdays." Entry fees will be waived for the day - a great opportunity to check out a provincial park.

New this season are "Park Packs", a unique gift giving idea that offers a camping package at a discount. It includes a three-day entry permit and two nights camping, along with value added coupons from several partners. It sells for $44 and is valued at $57.

To ensure park visitors have a safe, enjoyable holiday, individuals abusing alcohol, or creating a disturbance, may be charged or evicted from the park.

For more information on Saskatchewan Parks, pick up a copy of the 2003 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:

Ken Kelly Environment Regina Phone: (306)787-8969