Province Celebrates Newest Provincial Park

NOTE: A social media version of this release with hi-res, downloadable photos and audio clipsis is available at http://novascotia.ca/news/smr/2013-06-26-Sackville-Park/ . -----------------------------------------------------------------Imagine scenic hiking trails among beautiful trees on a rolling terrain thriving in an urban surrounding, and you have envisioned Nova Scotia's newest provincial park.

The designation means Nova Scotians and visitors can enjoy Sackville Lakes Provincial Park while knowing it will be better protected for generations to come. Premier Darrell Dexter officially designated the 721 acres along First and Second lakes in Lower Sackville today, June 26.

"This beautiful space is in the heart of the Lower Sackville community, literally and figuratively. Just being here brings a certain peace and perspective," said Premier Dexter. "The park gives residents an opportunity to easily access green space and lakeside trails, something truly valued by anyone living in a city."

There were about 1.5 million visits to provincial beaches and parks last year, and more than 65 per cent of Nova Scotians went at least once. Visitors participate in activities such as swimming, camping, enjoying nature, and geocaching.

"Our provincial parks provide great outdoor spaces for families and communities to come together, get fit, stay healthy and have fun," said Health and Wellness Minister David Wilson. "Parks help our communities be healthy and strong, which is the goal of Thrive!, our plan for a healthier Nova Scotia. We all have a role to play in reaching that goal."

This is the first provincial park designation made since 2002. The designation allows the province to better protect regionally significant natural and cultural heritage resources, and to better manage the lands.

Members of the Second Lake Regional Park Association and other supporters of the Sackville park are pleased with the added protection.

"This is awesome news. Our association came together with the primary goal of securing Sackville Lakes Provincial Park for all Nova Scotians," said Shane O'Neil, co-chair of the Second Lake Regional Park Association. "The park represents the work of three associations working closely with representatives from government. Credit goes to those who tabled a proposed plan to protect more than 12 per cent of the province's land, and designation of parks, and especially Sackville Lakes Provincial Park."

Representatives of Halifax Regional Municipality, which manages an active transportation trail in the park, took part in the unveiling.

"The Sackville community, and all of HRM, has every reason to be extremely grateful to the members of the Second Lake Regional Park Association and the provincial government who worked tirelessly to make the Sackville Lakes Provincial Park a reality," said Steve Craig, councillor for Lower Sackville. "It is a jewel yet to be polished to its full brilliance."

For more information on Nova Scotia’s provincial parks, visit novascotia.ca/natr/parks .