Government of Canada Invests in Parks Canada Sites in Saskatchewan
News Release
May 25, 2016 Regina, Saskatchewan Parks Canada Agency
Canada’s national parks and historic sites belong to all Canadians. They represent the very best that Canada has to offer and tell the stories of who we are. These natural and cultural treasures attract millions of visitors and support our local economies.
Today, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, announced close to $22M for various projects at Parks Canada places in Saskatchewan.
For example, this investment will support a program that focuses on improving the grassland ecosystem at Grasslands National Park and provide volunteer opportunities to assist with initiatives that contribute to the recovery of species-at-risk.
The funding will also be used for improvements to visitor centres at national historic sites and campgrounds at Grasslands National Park, so more Canadians, including youth and newcomers, can experience the outdoors and learn about our environment and history. Other projects will develop new and innovative family-oriented programs and services that will provide rich and interactive experiences for visitors.
Investments in visitor infrastructure – such as trails, visitor centres and campgrounds, as well as highways, parkways and bridges – will ensure the quality and reliability of visitor facilities at Parks Canada places and continue to allow Canadians to connect with nature and history.
Quotes
“The projects announced today at Parks Canada places in Saskatchewan will help preserve our national parks and provide more opportunities for Canadians to learn more about our rich and diverse history. Through these investments, the Government of Canada is protecting and preserving national treasured places like Grasslands National Park and Batoche National Historic Site, while supporting local economies and the tourism sector.”
-The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
Quick facts
- Established in 1981, Grasslands National Park is a representative example of the Prairie Grasslands region. It contains the most intact example of the remaining native prairie in Canada and plays an important role in protecting the prairie ecosystem.
- Established in 1875, Fort Walsh quickly became the most important, largest and most heavily armed fort the North West Mounted Police garrisoned during their early years in the West.
- Batoche National Historic Site is working with Métis partners and the community to provide enhanced visitor services and activities that can more fully celebrate the Métis culture.
- Parks Canada is investing an unprecedented $3 billion dollars over 5 years to support infrastructure work to heritage, tourism, waterway and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas across Canada. This investment will ensure these cherished places are protected and secured for the future.
Related products
Backgrounder: 2016 South Saskatchewan Infrastructure Investments
Additional links
- Parks Canada: www.parkscanada.gc.ca
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Media contacts
Caitlin Workman
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-938-9436
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
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