Released on July 15, 2014
From hiking and fishing to campfire cookouts and relaxing, everyone’s favourite week is underway. The Government of Saskatchewan has once again proclaimed July 13-19, 2014 as Saskatchewan Parks Week.
“Our provincial parks capture the beauty and spirit o0f Saskatchewan, through the gorgeous scenery and exciting activities they have available,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Mark Docherty said. “Saskatchewan offers an exceptional quality of life, and our parks are an important part of that.”
Saskatchewan’s 35 provincial parks will be celebrating Parks Week with a variety of activities. Visitors to parks can experience archaeology, astronomy, canoeing, hiking, rope-making, tipi-building and more. This year is a particularly special year for a few provincial parks in Saskatchewan, as they are celebrating milestone anniversaries. Narrow Hills turns 80, Lac La Ronge is 75 and Great Blue Heron will have its first anniversary as a provincial park. Cypress Hills is also celebrating 25 years as an interprovincial park.
Saturday, July 19 has also been proclaimed as Canada’s Parks Day. Saskatchewan is proud to join other provinces, territories and the Canadian Parks Council in making this designation. This event, in its 25th year, focuses on connecting Canadians to nature.
Saskatchewan Provincial Parks work closely with many partners to bring exciting programs to its visitors. Park users can enjoy both music and theatre at the parks, with Embrace Theatre and Saskatchewan Express touring several parks over the summer. In addition, the Saskatchewan Archaeological Society will be visiting many parks with its ArchaeoCaravan tour and Canoe Kayak Saskatchewan and Sask Volleyball are offering fun family programming, mini-camps and tournaments in some provincial parks.
Visit www.saskparks.net for a full listing of park activities.
Saskatchewan’s provincial parks are more popular than ever. In 2013, the provincial park system set a record 3.7 million visits. The 2014-15 budget has increased funding to provincial parks by 4.6 per cent this year. Capital investments, including campground electrical expansion, service and visitor centre replacements and water system upgrades will total a record $14.9 million in 2014-15.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Karen Webb
Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-7828
Email: karen.webb@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-529-4087