Field, British Columbia, June 24, 2011 -- The Honourable Peter Kent, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, joined the community of Field to launch the celebration of Yoho National Park's 125th anniversary.
"For 125 years, Yoho has remained a place of awe and inspiration, brimming with natural and cultural treasures. The Government of Canada remains steadfastly dedicated to the preservation and protection of these national treasures for generations to come," said Mr. Kent. "Yoho National Park is one of Canadian and foreign travelers' favorite destinations and I encourage all Canadians to take part in the celebrations of this amazing place, one of Canada's first national parks."
Today's celebrations in Field also featured the arrival of the historic Canadian Pacific Empress 2816 steam train, performances by Mountain WIT, award-winning Parks Canada interpreters, and the unveiling of a mosaic created by local elementary school students commemorating the 125th anniversary of Yoho.
Yoho is part of a system of national parks, national marine conservation areas and national historic sites that is recognized as one of the finest and most extensive systems of protected areas in the world.
In addition to Yoho's birthday, 2011 marks the 100th anniversary since the creation of Parks Canada, the world's first national service dedicated to parks. Parks Canada works to ensure Canada's cultural and natural heritage are presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians today and in the future.
Celebrations are underway all summer long until Thanksgiving weekend to celebrate Yoho's 125th birthday. For a full list of celebratory events in Yoho National Park visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca which also features a section of the centennial program.
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Information:
Omar McDadi
Parks Canada
403-522-1277 (office)
or 403-760-1090 (cell)
www.twitter.com/parkscanada
