The Facts

• The Executive Budget Proposal will force many parks to close.
• No one is yet certain which parks will have to shut down.
  
• State Parks are needed more than ever. They provide affordable, close-to-home recreation for families who can no longer afford to travel long distances.  
• 2 million more people visited NY State Parks in 2009 than in 2008.  
• NY State Parks generate nearly $2 billion in statewide economic activity each year.
  
• Park closures will leave New Yorkers poorer in both spirit and in pocket.
• $70 million in cuts have been proposed to the state's Environmental Protection Fund (EPF).
• Funds for land acquisition have been eliminated in the EPF, and grants for municipal parks and local waterfront revitalization have been cut severely. 
  
• We need your help to stop these draconian cuts.  

The Tentative Schedule for Parks & Trails Advocacy Days:

9 - 9:15 am: Arrive at Parks & Trails NY Main Office (just across the street from the Capitol).  Pick up Adovacy Day lobbying materials

9:15 - 9:45 am: Coffee, Bagels, and Pre-lobby briefing.

10:15 am - 3 pm: Attend pre-scheduled meetings with your legislators.  There will be breaks scheduled for lunch.