Minister McKenna Explores Elk Island National Park with Elementary School Students  

May 26, 2017                   Elk Island National Park, Alberta                 Parks Canada Agency

National parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas represent the very best that Canada has to offer and tell stories of who we are, including the history, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.

Today, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, participated in conservation activities with students from the Lamont Elementary School. The Minister was joined by Alan Nursall, President and CEO of Telus World of Science, and Beverly Crier, Samson Cree Nation Historian and Resource Manager. They had the chance to see firsthand all the work that is done to protect and present nationally significant examples of Canada’s natural heritage, such as the plains bison. It is in Elk Island National Park that the storied plains bison was brought back from near extinction, and visitors today are privy to the behind-the-scenes story of how this icon was saved and continues to thrive.

To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Government of Canada’s gift to Canadians is free admission to all Parks Canada places in 2017. Canada’s national parks and historic sites enable Canadians to experience their rich history and heritage in a special way and will play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150. Parks Canada is encouraging visitors to plan their trips and discover new and exciting destinations in 2017 by consulting Parks Canada’s website and using the Parks Canada Mobile App.