The Maryland Park Service 30 years ago was fully staffed, and funding covered maintenance and school programs as new park land was added, but now funding cuts have lead to a deteriorating parks system, officials said.
“I think there is a general apathy among the public that their parks will always be there [and] always be cared for,” said former Park Superintendent Rusty Ruszin.
Funding has declined 50 percent, and staff levels dipped 25 percent from fiscal 2002 to 2006, according to a study released Thursday by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
The report outlines scenarios for fully funding the Park Service, including finding a long-term, predictable funding source.
“Our target is to begin to get additional funds back in the budget to help us get back to a more sustainable level,” said Chuck Hecker, Parks Service assistant superintendent.
The report outlined recommendations, including:
» Adding $5 million a year for four years for maintenance and educational programs;
» Increasing general fund revenues for basic functions;
» Finding ways to reduce fees.
However, advocates recognize that the state legislature is debating how to tackle a $1.7 billion deficit.
Gov. Martin O?Malley?s doomsday list of cuts if the deficit isn?t addressed included closing eight state parks to save $2.3 million, but his proposed revenue package includes a $5 million increase for parks.
But the proposed increases are minimal compared with the Park Service?s $31 million annual budget, and well-maintained parks bring tourism dollars, said Tom Ross, executive director of the Maryland Recreation and Parks Association.
“I think the opportunity is now given the fact that we are facing changes to the budget and how resources are arrayed,” he said.
Fast Facts
» Park funding has declined from $29 million in fiscal 2002 to about $14 million in fiscal 2006.
» State parks lost 25 percent of full-time staff from 2002 to 2006.
» The ratio of staff to visitors is 1 to 55,000.
» Park attendance is at an all-
time high of 12 million visitors a year.
Source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources
