Embargoed Until May 5, 12:45 p.m. CST Parks and Recreation Associations Team up with Libraries to Offer Free Park Passes May 5, 2022 – The Saskatchewan Library Association (SLA) is teaming up with the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA) and the Saskatchewan Regional Parks Association (SRPA) to lend free passes to regional parks this summer. From June 1 to September 15, 2022, the program will reduce barriers to participation and inspire people to get out, travel the province and enjoy the rejuvenating properties of nature. Anyone with a valid Saskatchewan library card can visit a participating library and borrow a pass allowing free access to nearly 100 regional parks. 800 passes are available and will be distributed to branches of participating regional libraries. Confirmed libraries include the Palliser Regional Library, Southeast Regional Library, Wheatland Regional Library and the Pahkisimon Nuyeʔáh Library System. More will be announced in the coming weeks. “We are excited to launch this program as part of Recreation & Parks Month this June,” said SPRA president Jody Boulet. “With the rising cost of living, people have to make tough choices. Visiting regional parks shouldn’t be one of the activities that doesn’t make the cut.” Saskatchewan’s regional parks span the province and offer something for everyone, from scenic hikes and lakes to secluded camping spots and world class golf courses. “The Saskatchewan Regional Parks Association is pleased to participate in the park pass lending initiative alongside our partners,” said SRPA executive director Katrina Irving. “This initiative supports our mission to create more accessible recreation opportunities for Saskatchewan residents.” Libraries have long been providers of recreational programming that enhances quality of life in the province, making the program a natural fit for SLA. “Libraries are always looking for ways to serve their communities, and this partnership gives libraries the chance to offer another amazing program. This is just one more perk to having a Saskatchewan library card!” said SLA president Amy Rankin. Park passes must be borrowed in person and are first come, first served. Library customers are encouraged to call their participating branch ahead to ensure passes are available. #### SPRA Media Contact: Christian Bates-Hardy, Communications Consultant Phone: (306) 552-3129 | Email: cbates-hardy@spra.sk.ca SLA Media Contact: Amy Rankin, President Phone: (306) 529-2502 | Email: amyj_rankin@hotmail.com
SRPA Media Contact: Katrina Irving, Executive Director Phone: (306) 975-0857 Email: katrinai@saskregionalparks.ca
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About the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA): SPRA is a network of recreation leaders dedicated to energizing Saskatchewan and changing lives! We imagine a province where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy recreation and feel more connected to nature, our communities, and ourselves. It’s our job to connect, educate and inspire others to build this future together. We’re empowered to succeed through funding support from Sask Lotteries. Learn more about the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association at www.spra.sk.ca. About the Saskatchewan Library Association: The SLA is a provincial, volunteer, non-profit organization designed to further the development of library service in Saskatchewan and through libraries, the culture of the province. SLA includes as members: individuals, institutions, and organizations who share a common interest in library service and cultural activities. Learn more about the Saskatchewan Library Association at www.saskla.ca. About the Saskatchewan Regional Parks Association and the Regional Park System (SRPA): The SRPA represents Regional Parks in Saskatchewan. The Regional Park system is unique to our province. These parks were developed by volunteers surrounding the park’s location. Today, there are nearly 100 regional parks across the province. Each park is a different size and offers an abundance of choices for activities.
Learn more about Saskatchewan’s Regional Parks and plan your next trip at www.saskregionalparks.ca.