If you own an electric vehicle or have ever thought of purchasing one, it will now be easier to recharge and keep moving with the introduction of 454 new charging stations in communities throughout the province.

With the release of the new Vancouver Island Coast Regional Agriculture Framework for Action, producers now have a valuable tool to help them take advantage of the many opportunities presented by the growing trend of buying local food.

An additional 14,750 hectares on the Sunshine Coast are now protected in old growth management areas, Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Minister Steve Thomson announced today.

An additional $3.3 million is being provided for 80 schools across all 60 school districts for the repair, improvement and replacement of playgrounds, Education Minister George Abbott announced.

BC Parks is getting an extra $3 million for this year's capital budget, a 27 per cent increase over last year. Overall, $13.98 million is funding projects directed at attracting young families, offering new recreation opportunities, improving accessibility and increasing attendance.