Wentworth Provincial Park to be Run by Private Operator

NATURAL RESOURCES--Wentworth Provincial Park to be Run by Private Operator

Wentworth Provincial Park in Cumberland County will open for the 2003 camping season with a new operator. MacDonald Property Management of Halifax Regional Municipality has been contracted to operate the park.

"We are pleased that an agreement could be reached to keep this facility in operation," said M.L.A. Murray Scott on behalf of Tim Olive, Minister of Natural Resources. "It provides excellent camping opportunities and allows both the local community and tourists alike to experience and enjoy nature in Nova Scotia."

Wentworth Park has had two operators since it was closed by the Department of Natural Resources in 1995. A call for proposals to operate and manage the park was issued earlier this year. Proposals were evaluated against a number of standards that addressed park operation and management issues.

MacDonald Property Management is owned and operated by Robert MacDonald, a Halifax/Dartmouth area businessman. Mr. MacDonald has previous work experience in park operations and maintenance.

"Mr. MacDonald and the department share a strong commitment to making this park work and involving the community surrounding Wentworth," said Mr. Scott. Mr. MacDonald has been interested in operating a campground for a number of years.

The department will continue to operate and maintain the day use area of the park, while MacDonald Property will run the camping section.

The park is expected to open on May 16. For more information on the parks season call 902-424-5937.