Years and years ago, when Theo. Roosevelt and Gifford Pinchot, two good friends got together and talked about forming the National/State parks system It was understood that these parks were not to be a Money making proposition.
The Park system was formed so that
ALL could enjoy Public land.
These public lands are just that. And are unlike public buildings that you can just put a pad lock on and walk away from.
They STILL HAVE TO BE PATROLLED!
The only thing they are closing are the Cash Registers.
If a Park is loosing money now...think how much money it will loose with out any INCOME.
Stat Parks Create Commerce. The buying of goods in an area.
Last Fall we, TearJerkers Liberty Bell Chapter had a Fall Foliage Trip in New jersey.
We had 20 Trailers and about 30-33 people. Out camping fees were About $800, (some people stayed an extra day, Who knows.) Thats $800 to the New Jersey State Parks System.
BUT
We spent another $4500 in tolls, Gas, Groceries, Forgotten camping gear, lunch...stuff and a bunch went out to dinner Friday night.
That park, and the area for that weekend that Myself and other TearJerkers were there for brought the State of New Jersey over $5000.
To me, Closing Parks is Small thinking.
This is not a California Problem, It is a national problem.
If our elected "Weiner's" don't go camping thats one thing, but not seeing the BIG picture, then
WE have a problem.
I just got through a Rally in New jersey..Hell I don't even live in New Jersey. But if its near you...It Affects You.
click on photo for more pictures
This is all our Fight.
Happy Trails
Len