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On January 10, the Governor released the state’s fiscal year 08-09 budget. Chief among his solutions for addressing the state’s budget problems is a draconian proposal to shut down 48 state parks and reduce lifeguard staffing at 16 state beaches in Santa Cruz, Orange and San Diego Counties. The 48 parks proposed for closure span the state and include 17 state parks, 17 state historic parks and museums, 3 state beaches, 9 state recreation areas and 2 state reserves. This action would have the affect of shutting down 17 percent of the state park system and leaving California beachgoers on their own during popular summer seasons. And for all of that pain, the state gains very minimal revenue savings - about $9 million - since state parks are so woefully underfunded already.
This proposal will have real and immediate consequences for millions of Californians who rely on state parks for recreation, fitness, education, and connecting with nature and the outdoors. It will mean a decline in the management of important natural, cultural and historic resources that are part of California’s history and the fabric of our state. And it will mean that our world-class state beaches will become less safe and less protected during peak seasons.
 The Governor’s proposal is simply unacceptable, and must be rejected. The California State Parks Foundation is working with PCL and organizations around the state to fight all park closures and recently launched the Save Our State Parks campaign. As part of the campaign, you can make your voice heard on this important environmental assault. Visit www.SaveStateParks.org for more information.
Take Action Now!
If you would like to help make sure the Governor’s Budget keeps all of our state parks open, please send a letter immediately to your local representatives. Follow this link to find out who represents your district.
This article was written by Traci Verardo at the California State Parks Foundation and was published in our March 2008 edition of California Today.
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