OurMichiganParks.org

From the Traverse City Record-Eagle :

Rob and Danetta Johnson drove to the area from their Flint home to rest and relax at Forks State Forest Campground along the Boardman River.

They found the gate locked, and a notice said the state couldn’t afford to fund the eight-site campground this year. Disappointed, the Johnsons instead drove to town and set up camp at Traverse City State Park.

"The parks are here for everyone, so long as they’re not closing them," Rob Johnson said.

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From the Traverse City Record-Eagle:

A new way for Michigan residents to fund the state’s world-class park system would benefit frequent users as well as those who never go near the places. If enough people tell the truth, that is. Let’s hope we’re as honest as we think we are.

Right now, the parks are our secret shame — or should be. Even though Michigan ranks second in the nation in overnight park attendance, it is dead last nationally — last — in general tax support for parks. That is, to put it politely, disgusting.

This is the brainchild of the Citizens Committee for Michigan State Parks and is modeled on systems used elsewhere. It’s fair and it will provide the revenue the park system needs to not just survive but thrive.

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From the Traverse City Record-Eagle:

Proposed new legislation announced Thursday calls for the elimination of entrance fees for all state parks, and drivers instead would be asked to foot the bill through an additional $10 when they renew their vehicles each year.

The legislation would allow staff to better use their time, cut down on lines and benefit drivers who want a view of Grand Traverse Bay, said Tim Schreiner, a unit supervisor at Traverse City State Park.

“Even if they never drive in there, I see it as a benefit,” Schreiner said. “Their natural resources are being preserved.”

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