Renovations help Rogers Pass Discovery Centre in Glacier National Park
By Contributor
Following extensive renovations, which were funded in part by Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre was ready to welcome visitors Monday.
The opening also honoured the 50-year partnership between Parks Canada and the Canadian Forces for avalanche control along the Trans-Canada Highway in Glacier National Park.
“The renovated Rogers Pass Discovery Centre is introducing visitors to the Glacier National Park, established in 1886, and will contribute to tourism growth in the area for years to come by offering science, art and adventure-related activities,” said Peter Kent, Canada’s Environment minister and minister responsible for Parks Canada.
Rogers Pass Discovery Centre connects people with the natural wonders and rich cultural history of the park through interactive exhibits, films and storytelling. Renovations to the Discovery Centre include important structural repairs as well as innovative new exhibits.
As part of today’s opening, the Canadian Forces presented Parks Canada with three decommissioned howitzers for display in Glacier National Park in recognition of the 50th anniversary of collaboration in operating the world’s largest mobile avalanche control program.
“Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors to British Columbia’s mountain national parks and millions of through-traffic vehicles are able to travel the Trans-Canada Highway safely thanks to the collaborative efforts of our Government,” said David Wilks, member of Parliament for Kootenay-Columbia.
“For 50 years, we have kept Canadians safe at home during the winter months by triggering controlled avalanches before they became a threat to the highway and motorists.”
This year Parks Canada celebrates its 100th anniversary as the first formal national park service organization in the world.
Parks Canada is a world leader in managing protected areas and works to ensure that Canada’s treasured natural and historic heritage places are presented and protected for all Canadians to discover and experience now and for years to come.
A total of $374 million dollars has been invested in the refurbishment of Parks Canada facilities through Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
