Interior renovations at Wells Gray Information Centre are nearing completion and work continues outside to provide a better experience for the anticipated 150,000 visitors this season, announced Environment Minister Terry Lake.

A fresh coat of paint and new counters, desks and brochure racks breathe new life to the inside of the Wells Gray Information Centre, which opened in 1986. The heating and cooling systems have been replaced, helping to reduce the centre's carbon footprint. Electrical repairs and upgrades have also been completed, making them more energy efficient. External doors and the fireplace have all been upgraded and repaired to improve cost efficiencies and eliminate drafts.

To enhance visitor experiences, signage is being improved and interpretation and information displays capturing the history, culture and features of the area are being created. Visitors can also look forward to additional picnic tables and increased accessibility at the information centre. The improvement project is expected to be complete by March 2014 at an estimated cost of $275,000.

The information centre is staffed by Information Wells Gray, a not-for-profit organization formed from local business and tourism operators more than 10 years ago. Information Wells Gray has worked with BC Parks to transform this once-modest visitor centre into a multi-functional hub that serves the business community, the travelling public and visitors to Wells Gray Provincial Park.

Quotes:

Terry Lake, Minister of Environment -

"The Wells Gray Information Centre is a vital resource for travellers and the region as a whole. It is great to see the progress that has been made here in just a few short months. Once these renovations are completed, the information centre - which provides much more than just information - will have a whole new fresh look and feel, ready to welcome community members and visitors for years to come."

Tay Briggs, director, Information Wells Gray -

"Information Wells Gray is very pleased to see these upgrades proceeding on time so we will be ready to welcome visitors in a few short weeks. This investment to upgrade the information centre will ensure that visitors get the chance to appreciate Wells Gray and our amazing provincial park system and create long-term benefits for our communities."

Quick Facts:

• The Wells Gray Information Centre is open seven days a week from mid-May until mid-October.

• BC Parks and Information Wells Gray have recently signed a 10-year management agreement ensuring the centre will remain a valuable resource for the community for the long term.

• Wells Gray Provincial Park covers 540,000 hectares. Activities range from canoeing to horseback riding and camping.

• Wells Gray Park is located within Canim Lake Band and Simpcw traditional territories and has been accessed over time using various trails and transportation routes.

• The unique features of this park include volcanoes, waterfalls, mineral springs and glaciers.

• Parking fees were eliminated at provincial parks in 2011, making them more accessible to B.C. families.

Learn More:

For more information about the Wells Gray Information Centre, visit: http://ow.ly/g324p

For more information about the Wells Gray Provincial Park, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/wells_gry/

For more information about BC Parks, visit: www.BCParks.ca

Media Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 953-3834