Governor Schwarzenegger has released his mid-May revised budget proposal. Somewhat unexpectedly, it included some funding for the State Park system. Previously the Governor had proposed zeroing out the budget for parks and providing funding through offshore oil lease revenues. However, he no longer supports such drilling.

The proposal provides funding at levels similar to 2008–2009, raising hopes that park closures and major cutbacks to parks are not in the cards for the year ahead. That would be good for parks and for California since state park visitation is a major tourism activity that produces net revenue for the state.

But there are many steps ahead in the budget negotiations between the legislature and governor. It is quite possible that proposals to cut or close the state park system will be made. It is also quite possible that letters from concerned individuals will once again be needed to support our magnificent—and economically valuable—park system.

The last budget cycle triggered a grueling fight over closure of the state park system in which the Mono Lake Committee delivered over 2,600 letters and 5,000 local petition signatures supporting Mono Lake and Bodie to Sacramento decision makers.

Looking beyond the budget, funding for state parks through the State Parks and Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund Act is slated for the November ballot as well.

In the days ahead we’ll be watching the budget process closely to be sure state parks at Mono Lake and Bodie stay safe. And we’ll keep The Mono-logue up to date with the latest news.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, May 18th, 2010 at 12:10 pm and is filed under Action Alert: Save State Parks at Mono Lake and Bodie, News, Policy. You can view No Responses on this post or leave your own response if you log in.