The proposed closing of Lake County”s only two state parks could have an impact on the south county. Anderson Marsh State Historic Park, along with the Clear Lake State Park, is on Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger”s hit list.
It”s all part of Governor”s plan to reduced the massive state budget deficit of $14.4 billion. However, in the opinion of many people, closing Anderson Marsh State Historic Park wouldn”t save much money but would have a significant impact on local residents and tourists who visit Lake County. The parks draw about 40,000 visitors a year. Many are locals who enjoy walking the many trails and observing birds and wildlife.
The park is basically a day-use area and consists of 870 acres of marsh and woodlands. It is home to a wide variety of birds, deer, an occasional bear and even mountain lions. Otters and mink occupy the shoreline. For those who enjoy nature and the outdoors it is a perfect place to spend a day hiking and relaxing.
The actual cost to run the park is insignificant in comparison to the pleasure that it offers visitors. Volunteers provide much of the manpower and serve as trail guides.
Whereas it would be a tragedy to close Anderson Marsh State Park, it my opinion it would be even worse to close the Clear Lake State Park. That park offers four developed campgrounds with a total of 149 camping sites plus an excellent boat ramp. Actually with the exception of a couple of private campgrounds located near the lake, the Clear Lake State Park is the only place where a camper can put up a tent and stay a few days.
I actually doubt the state legislature would allow both parks to be closed. The bad part is that with 48 state parks slated to be closed, the communities around these parks will be battling to keep them open and the ones that have the most political clout are the ones that will survive. The big question is if tiny Lake County has that kind of clout and even if one of our parks does survive there are sure to be major cutbacks in services and an increase in entrance fees.
The other question is if the parks close what becomes of the land? Most likely the areas will be gated off and no one will be allowed on the property. The buildings will fall into disrepair and the grounds won”t be kept up. Hopefully there will another solution to closing state parks.
Terry Knight can be reached at tknight3021@sbcglobal.net or by calling (707) 263-1699. Letters intended for publication can be sent to letters@clearlakeobserver.com.
