July 21, 2007
On Saturday, July 21, 2007, urban, provincial and national parks staff,
conservation groups, including CPAWS, and hundreds of dedicated volunteers
and park visitors will celebrate our parks and protected areas and
national historic sites across the country.
On this year’s Canada’s Parks Day, CPAWS is taking the time to celebrate
our parks and protected areas, and encourages other Canadians to do the
same. Since 1963 CPAWS has helped to conserve over 400,000 km2 of Canada’s
most treasured wild places in parks and other protected areas – an area
nearly seven times the size of Nova Scotia.
“Parks Day is a day to celebrate parks and protected areas. While these
areas provide exceptional outdoor recreation playgrounds, they are also
essential for wildlife, traditional activities, and sustainable tourism
opportunities,” says Ron Thiessen, CPAWS Manitoba Executive Director.
Approximately 8% of Manitoba’s lands and waters are protected from
industrial developments in parks or other protected areas. This is far
behind BC at 13% and Alberta at 12%.
“The Manitoba government has made strong commitments to protect large
areas within our boreal forests. It’s long overdue for them to take action
and get the job done,” added Thiessen.
Canada’s Parks Day was first celebrated in 1990 and since has grown into a
national event honored by thousands of Canadians in every province and
territory. Parks are a part of our natural and cultural heritage and are
places that are cherished by residents and visitors to Canada alike.
For more information call CPAWS MB Executive Director at 794 4971 or 453 6346.
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