Its a sad time for hikers, campers and public park loving folks.

Come fall, Californians could find themselves with fewer parks to visit and fewer services available at parks that are open. Last week, California Governor Jerry Brown announced plans to close 70 of the Golden State's 278 state parks in an effort to balance the state budget. Although proposed closure lists have been released in the past in response to previous budget cut proposals, this is the first time in the 100 year history of California’s state park system that closures will be implemented.

While the plan is not yet finalized, State Parks Director Ruth Coleman hinted at the fact that in addition to park closures, there is a possibility of cutting back on services, such as closing bathrooms, lifeguard towers and other facilities, throughout the state park system, cutting $11 million in the coming fiscal year and $22 million in the 2012-13 fiscal year.

If you enjoy camping, hiking, surfing and California's outdoors, and want to help stop the closure of our state parks please click here to send a letter to your legislators and the Governor opposing these closures and showing your continued support for California’s state parks.


via Surfrider Newsletter