Park Administration Building

The original stone and log Park Administration office was built in 1930 on a hill overlooking the lake. The need for more space required an addition in 1936. A larger, modern facility replaced it in 1967-8, constructed on the neighbouring lot. In days gone by, the Park Services compound occupied a large area in the townsite directly behind the Park Centre businesses. It was relocated out of town on Highway 264 and the former area has been reforested. 

Visitors owe a debt of gratitude to the employees of Parks Canada for all their efforts to make Prince Albert National Park a special place. Parks Canada’s mandate is to protect and present nationally significant examples of Canada’s natural and cultural heritage. The employees ensure the ecological and commemorative integrity of these places for present and future generations. They strive to foster a public understanding of Canada’s special places. 

The tasks Parks Canada staff perform are diverse and numerous. There are the resource conservation and ecological tasks associated with maintaining the integrity of the flora, fauna, and environment in the Park. As well, there are all the responsibilities of operating a townsite: maintaining roads, bridges, and sidewalks, providing sewer, water, and garbage services, and handling fees and leases. Facilities are needed for campers who stay overnight and for day visitors too. Security and safety of visitors is a concern of the Park staff. The Interpretive staff offers programming to educate visitors about the Park. Crews maintain the trails year round. Fire crews work in the fuel break as well as when there are forest fires. Many of the staff live in the housing provided on Montreal Drive, while others commute into the Park to work.