Arizona is only one of several states enacting state park closures this year. State closures are the result of governments in debt looking for ways to cut spending. However, closures are forcing job losses and a loss in the economy to the towns that host the parks. Arizona is unique in that dialogue with the community has resulted in the temporary turning over of state parks to towns for caretaking.
Of the original list of closures, only four ended up closing. The rest will remain open under new care. Unfortunately other states are heading down the same road as Arizona, looking to ways to save money to pay off massive debts. Class A RV owners will have to find new towns to spend their money in instead of heading to states where they may find numerous closures.
Up in New York, 80 parks were sacrificed to help keep government spending down. Parks weren’t the only institutions to see cuts; hospitals and schools also had government aide cut. Governor David A Patterson insisted this was the only way to help recoup money for the debt that New York has found itself in. While cutting funding from every institution may make sense on paper, in reality, state parks bring in revenue and help keep employment rates up.
Across the country in California, Governor Schwarzenegger thought closing state parks would be an easy way to save some money. However, Californian’s love of the outdoors became apparent when protests were sparked across the state. One such protest had people finishing a 260-mile hike from Bakersfield to Sacramento. The goal is to preserve California’s future.
Millions of people head out to enjoy their state parks every year. All that visiting brings in tourism dollars to the tune of $255 million. Money from state parks goes to pay taxes and helps local economies.
Class A RV owners are a key target for state parks as their reputation for good living results in money given back to the communities they travel through. Cutting funding for state parks may be a mistake that can’t be corrected in the future.
Closing state parks may be shooting the states in the foot. There is still enough protected space out there to satisfy nature lovers. However, there’s nothing to say Class A RV enthusiasts won’t turn their loyalties to parks that remain open through financially good times and bad.
Exploring the beauty of this country is part of the RVing way of life. It’s a part of our heritage and in the end, parks – whether they are state or government owned – are the land of the people. Setting up entrance fees only helps ensure the park’s protection for future generations.
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