DNR Closure Rumors

[Grumpy]

Putting rumors to rest about recreation on state lands
By Ear to the Ground
In the past few days, we’ve heard from a lot of people with concerns about the future of recreation on DNR-managed lands. We appreciate all the mails, emails, and phone calls we’ve received and the support that it shows for recreation access across the state. We’d like to set the record straight; that DNR has made no decisions to close down any recreation areas it manages.

First, we want you to know that DNR is working very hard to keep recreation access open to the public. However, the Governor’s budget, announced in December, essentially zeroes out funding for recreation programs. DNR is working with the Governor, other state agencies and the legislature on a recreation pass proposal that will provide sustainable funding for recreational opportunities on state lands.

These are difficult times and all state programs, including DNR’s recreation program, are facing an uncertain future due to the current budget crisis. But we want to reassure you that DNR has made no decisions regarding recreation site closures, nor will decisions be made until after the legislature and Governor have approved the 2011-2013 budget this spring. We are working toward a budget that can avoid cuts.

You can stay up to date on the status of our legislative proposal—and other recreation issues—by subscribing to DNR’s Recreation E-News. Send an email to recreationenews@dnr.wa.gov and put “Subscribeâ€