New visitor centre to enhance park experience
June 5, 2015 – Huntington, NS – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Two Rivers Wildlife Park has something for everyone - “paws” to visit the animals whose habitats are found along a kilometre-long trail; relax atop an old-fashioned hay ride; or reel in the excitement at one of three u-fish ponds -. From the avid nature lover to the casual observer, Two Rivers strives to provide unique and educational experiences with an emphasis on quality visitor experiences.
Two Rivers Wildlife Park welcomes approximately 44,000 visitors annually and now, thanks to contributions from both the federal and provincial governments, visitors will be welcomed in style. Senator Michael L. MacDonald was on hand today, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), to announce a $389,775 investment, through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund, toward the construction of a new visitor centre at the wildlife park. The Honourable Michel Samson, on behalf of NS Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable Zach Churchill, was also present to celebrate previously announced support of $200,000 for the project and in-kind support from Department of Natural Resources staff to help with campsite upgrades.
The centre, which will include a gift shop, new washrooms, as well as additional amenities for campers, will be operational this summer.
Quick Facts:
- Two Rivers Wildlife Park is located in Huntington, NS, in a natural setting of 500 acres adjacent to the world-famous Mira River.
- The Park’s one kilometre walking trail offers visitors the unique opportunity to view over 40 varieties of native and exotic wildlife and birds.
- The petting zoo at Two Rivers houses an additional 12 varieties of domestic and wild animals, allowing visitors the opportunity to get up-close and personal with the animals.
- Other park experiences include; swimming, paddle boat rentals, wildlife displays, horse-drawn wagon rides, three u-fish ponds, a fish hatchery, as well as sleigh rides and cross-country skiing in the winter months.
Quotes:
“Our Government recognizes that a sustainable tourism industry is vital to building strong, healthy communities. Our investment in Two Rivers Wildlife Park will enhance the value of important community infrastructure, complementing other tourism offerings in Cape Breton and encouraging visitors to stay longer.”
- Senator Michael L. MacDonald, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)
“Nova Scotia is pleased to help Two Rivers Wildlife Park enhance their facility, to attract tourists and campers and improve their capacity to care for the wildlife that live there.”
- The Honourable Michel Samson, on behalf of Nova Scotia Minister of Natural Resources Zach Churchill
“The funding announced today will have an immediate impact on our ability to provide a quality experience for our visitors. The new visitor centre will also contribute to the long-term viability of the Park through revenues generated from the new gift shop and campers.”
- John Huntington - Manager, Two Rivers Wildlife Park
Associated Link:
Contacts:
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Alex Smith
Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
Email: Alex.Smith@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
John Huntington
Manager, Two Rivers Wildlife Park
902-727-2483
