Environment Minister Mary Polak, Chilliwack-Hope MLA Laurie Throness and Jerry the Moose joined in the fun and games at Cultus Lake Provincial Park today, as Canadians from coast to coast celebrate Parks Day.

This annual event encourages families to visit parks and historic sites across the country to reconnect with nature and celebrate the key role parks play in creating and maintaining healthy and resilient ecosystems.

With 1,029 parks and protected areas throughout the province, there’s a lot to see and do. B.C.’s parks are among the most diverse ranging from deserts to rainforests and coastal marine to high elevation alpine.

Since 2004, B.C.’s protected areas system has increased by more than 3.2 million hectares. This includes designating some existing areas, totalling more than 500,000 hectares, to Class A parks and conservancies, providing an increased level of protection. More than 55,000 hectares was recently added this spring session to B.C.’s protected area system.

Many provincial parks throughout B.C. are hosting games for the whole family in honour of Parks Day. Activities include sandcastle-building competitions, wildlife safety education, scavenger hunts and colouring contests.

To find out more about exciting activities taking place this summer in provincial parks, visit the BC Parks event calendar and join in the fun: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/events/calendar/#eventList

Don’t forget to pick up a free BC Parks Passport at any visitor centre in B.C. and most provincial parks. These passports are a great way for families to have fun and experience new places, while collecting stamps and stickers to earn great prizes. Passports also include advice on trip planning and Visitor Centre coupons.

(flickr.com)

Quotes:

Mary Polak, Minister of Environment -

“The beauty of British Columbia’s parks means they are a great place for so many of our favourite family-fun activities such as camping and hiking. Parks Day is a wonderful opportunity for British Columbians to rediscover the outdoors and connect with nature.”

Laurie Throness, MLA for Chilliwack-Hope -

“Here in British Columbia, we are fortunate to be able to enjoy the natural landscape of this great province. I encourage families to get outside, take part in today’s celebration and enjoy healthy outdoor activities.”

Quick Facts:

• Canada’s first Parks Day was celebrated in 1990.
• British Columbia has one of the biggest parks and protected areas in North America.
• Over 20 million people visit British Columbia’s parks each year.
• Parking is free in all provincial parks making them more accessible to families.
• Accessibility is a priority for BC Parks in capital investment and refurbishment projects. This ensures that facilities continue to perform to expectations and meet the needs of the widest range of park visitors.

Learn More:

For more information about B.C.’s provincial parks, visit: www.BCParks.ca

For more information about Parks Canada, visit: www.pc.gc.ca

Connect with BC Parks on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/YourBCParks

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 953-3834