please help keep state parks open!

An article in today's Post-Gazette said that state budget cuts Republicans are proposing could mean that 50 state parks will close by July 1. "If 35 to 40 parks were closed, the DCNR estimated that approximately 3 million park visitors would be affected and visitor spending in local communities would be reduced by almost $58 million."

The state's parks are not only a huge draw for tourism, but are microcosms of the natural beauty that make PA so wonderful. I was heartbroken to see some of my favorites--Linn Runn and Laurel Summit--on the list. Closing them would mean abandoning our natural treasures!

Please help make sure this doesn't happen by sending an email to Governor Rendell. If you are unsure what to write, feel free to use the following message. Let's make sure our state parks don't close!!!

Please do not force DCNR to close PA state parks by accepting the proposed Republican budget cuts! Our parks are natural and important treasures, representing the best of PA’s scenic beauty and giving residents valuable recreational opportunities. The wilderness and recreation areas in the parks are vital not only to PA residents but also to tourism in our state. It would be a huge detriment to this state's tourism economy to close our beautiful parks. Please oppose the GOP budget plan and protect our parks!