Province Invests in Tourism

Tourism projects across Nova Scotia are receiving a financial boost from the province. The investments will help enhance hiking trails, develop interpretation programs at heritage sites and encourage industry growth.

A total of $220,978 will support 11 tourism projects under the province's Tourism Development Investment Fund. Tourism and Culture Minister Rodney MacDonald made the announcement today, Jan. 17, at the Coady & Tompkins Memorial Library in Margaree Forks.

"Nova Scotia's tourism industry is something to be proud of," said Mr. MacDonald. "We have a lot of strengths and a lot to offer our visitors. But to remain competitive, our industry must continue to grow and make improvements. That's what these projects are doing."

To encourage tourism growth, the province focuses on developing programs and projects aimed at the seacoast, culture and heritage, and outdoor and nature experiences for visitors.

"Obtaining this assistance from the province is an important step in getting this project off the ground," said Peter Sheehan, member of the Margaree Tourism Association. The association is receiving $37,200 to develop and implement an interpretation plan for the Margaree Canadian Heritage River. The project will also include other local attractions as well as the history and culture of the Margaree Valley area.

"This project is going to show visitors how unique this area is. From the beauty of our natural surroundings to the community's rich culture and heritage, we offer something other destinations can't," said Mr. Sheehan.

The Margaree Tourism Association is partnering with the Municipality of Inverness, the Margaree Area Development Association, the Margaree Fish Hatchery, the Margaree Salmon Association and the Margaree Lake Ainslie Heritage River Society on the initiative.

"The Margaree project is a shining example of the purpose of this investment program," said Scott MacAulay, member of the Tourism Partnership Council. "We are trying to encourage other partners to join us in developing our tourism strengths. The more partners we have, the more money there will be to help our industry grow."

Project partners from the tourism industry, community and other levels of government invested an additional $926,391 in the 11 projects.

Over the last year, the Tourism Development Investment Fund has invested $441,100 in 29 projects throughout Nova Scotia.

Information on the department's tourism programs is available from the Department of Tourism and Culture by calling 902-424- 3908 or by visiting the Tourism Partnership Council Web site, at www.nstpc.com .

Nova Scotia's billion-dollar tourism industry translates into jobs for more than 34,500 Nova Scotians. Tourism is also a significant export industry, with more than half of the money generated coming from outside the province.

Note: Following are the 11 selected projects:

• The Village of Cape North will receive $20,000 for the North Highlands Community Museum Re-development Project. The project focuses on expanding the museum and exhibits by linking the museum, church and local restaurant through interpretation programs.

• The Cumberland Regional Economic Development Association (CREDA) will receive $4,325 to continue its work on the Joggins Fossil Cliffs concept plan.

• Societe Promotion Grand Pre will receive $50,000 to develop and document live interactive programs through animators, costumes and programming at Grand Pre National Historic Site.

• Ducks Unlimited Canada will receive $25,000 to develop walking trails and birding opportunities in Annapolis Royal.

• The Cole Harbour Parks and Trails Association will receive $35,000 to help restore bridges, enhance coastal hiking trails and produce signage and brochures for the Cole Harbour Salt Marsh Trail.

• The Town of Lunenburg will receive $28,333 to develop the 250th Anniversary Park & Trail.

• South Shore Tourism Association will receive $6,000 to develop an interpretive tour that links French/Acadian cultural and heritage attractions and sites. The Association will also use $2,215 to provide tourism operators with a workshop that will help them develop partnerships and packages, and $10,500 to develop an interpretative birding brochure for the Lighthouse Route.

• Margaree Tourism Association will receive $37,200 to develop an interpretation plan for the Margaree Canadian Heritage River that includes other local attractions as well as the history and culture of the Margaree Valley area.

• The Nova Scotia Adventure Tourism Association will receive $2,405 to provide adventure tourism operators with a comprehensive workshop that will enhance interpretation skills.