Celebrate Parks Day, July 21

Make a kite, go for a hike and discover Nova Scotia's wildlife at one of the many provincial parks taking part in Parks Day on Saturday, July 21. This national celebration marks the 18th annual Parks Day and Nova Scotia provincial parks continue to participate each year.

"On Parks Day and throughout the year, we are given opportunities to demonstrate why Nova Scotia's provincial parks are called nature's resorts," said Natural Resources Minister David Morse. "Our parks offer physical activities and outdoor experiences, protect wildlife habitat and contribute to the health of surrounding communities."

At least 15 provincial parks throughout Nova Scotia are taking part in the festivities. The first Parks Day participant in 1990 was Dollar Lake Provincial Park and some of the original organizations return each year to take part in the celebrations. This year at Dollar Lake, events will include a wildlife presentation and display, archery, and map reading.

Over the years, activities have been developed that have become classics, such as the fun day at Mira River Provincial Park. This event draws more than 1,000 people each year to the re-enactment from Fortress Louisbourg, kids activities with prizes, and fireworks.

New events for 2007 include archery demonstrations and a barbeque at Thomas Raddall Provincial Park and a three kilometre hike to Uisge Ban Falls.

"As in Parks Days past, we hope many people celebrate with us on July 21," said Mr. Morse. "It's a chance to experience nature, meet new people and take advantage of all that our parks have to offer."

Parks Day events are included in the Parks are for People program, which takes place throughout the summer and fall. The program is a co-operative effort by government agencies, recreational clubs, community organizations and interested individuals and is co-ordinated by the Department of Natural Resources.

For detailed information on events, call 1-902-424-4321 or visit http://parks.gov.ns.ca/programs.asp.