KOIN TV - List of State Parks That Are Closing Will Be Released After Labor Day

09/04/09

Many people are enjoying the Labor Day weekend at one of our many beautiful state parks, but state officials are in the process of deciding which of those parks will close because of state budget cuts.

Paul Blankenship and his wife Peggy enjoy the natural beauty of Seacliff State Park, it might be there last time there if the state decides to close it due to the economy. "Sure nice to have a public place where we can have all these things," said Blanketship.

State Park officials will release a list of state parks that will close and when sometime after Labor Day. "We are waiting anxiously along with the public", said Bonny Hawley.

Bonny Hawley with Friends of Santa Cruz Parks said about 100 parks will close statewide. "There might be partial closures, there might restroom closed, visitors centers closed, employees laid off," said Hawley.

It's impossible to keep all the parks open, but her organization is on a mission to keep some open. So far they have 1000 volunteers ready to help. "As soon as that list is know we will step up and ask the community for help to raise the necessary funds," said Hawley.

Bonny said in these hard times, even free parks have a price. But many care enough to help with their time and money.

To help you can get more information at www.thatsmypark.org

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