Land Acquisitions Support Outdoor Recreation, Access to Nature

NOTE: A social media version of this release with hi-res, downloadable photos is available at http://novascotia.ca/news/smr/2014-04-28-Brigadoon-Land/ . More photos and video clips will be added after the event.

Land bought next to Brigadoon Village is one of several recent acquisitions by the province to protect natural spaces so Nova Scotians can enjoy them.

Premier Stephen McNeil, Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine, and Environment Minister Randy Delorey announced, today, April 28, at Brigadoon Village, that the province has bought 594 acres on Fancy Cove.

"What a great day for the children and families who benefit directly from Brigadoon Village and for the community and champions across the province who have worked tirelessly to secure these lands," said Mr. Delorey. "It's good to know these special places will be accessible for generations to come."

Founded in 2012, Brigadoon Village offers a safe camping experience for children, youth and families living with chronic illness and conditions or special needs.

"Since Brigadoon Village opened, hundreds of extraordinary children and youth and families have been able to come to this beautiful, rural part of Nova Scotia, and enjoy the camp experience with kids who are going through the same things they are," said Premier McNeil. "The surrounding woods and lakes will provide more opportunities for campers and residents to connect with nature and immerse themselves in a wilderness environment."

The land will provide more outdoor recreational opportunities in the area, part of the province's goals of encouraging children and youth to engage in more physical activity.

"We know the importance of play and having fun, for our hearts and souls and our minds and bodies," said Mr. Glavine. "We know the social benefits of taking part in physical recreation and the positive effect that physical activity can have on our health."

Preserving the wilderness around Brigadoon Village will benefit campers well into the future, said executive director David Graham.

"Through this land acquisition, we are thrilled that the premier, his cabinet and the government of Nova Scotia have recognized the importance of Brigadoon Village to Atlantic Canadian children and families living with chronic illnesses, chronic conditions or special needs," said Mr. Graham. "We see these lands as an opportunity for our campers to explore, learn, play and grow in a natural, protected environment and we look forward to being stewards of this area surrounding Brigadoon Village."

The acquisition is part of land from Yarmouth to Cape North, Victoria Co., the province has acquired through purchase, donation, exchange and land trust agreements.

For details on the Fancy Cove lands, or other land acquisitions for 2013-14, visit www.novascotia.ca/nse/protectedareas .

For more information on Brigadoon Village, visit www.brigadoonvillage.org/ .