AUGUSTA — What has made Maine state parks and historic sites so popular this year?

Certainly this summer’s sunshine and high temperatures were a factor. Heat and humidity bring people to the beach.

No doubt the economy has caused Mainers to rediscover these gems, too, as they offer a tremendous value for the dollar.

For a maximum of $6.50 per adult for day use or $15 a night for camping, we Mainers can disconnect from our too-busy world, enjoy beauty and recreation and refresh our spirit.

More than 2.3 million people visited Maine’s 48 state parks and historic sites through Sept. 30, an increase of nearly 11 percent over the same period last year. Their visits have contributed a record $ 3.4 million directly to the state’s General Fund and, according to the Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center, contributed more than $95 million to the Maine economy.

The Maine State Parks Passport, new this year for the 75th anniversary, has helped remind us of the remarkable places that are here in our own backyard. We are proud sponsors of this program, and we are delighted that 25 families have earned a free season pass for next year by visiting all 48 state sites. Another 45 families have earned two free nights of camping by visiting 40 parks.

The Parks Passport has helped thousands of Maine people and visitors explore our state, get to know its history and natural beauty, spend time with family and friends, and be more physically active.

INACTIVITY’S STAGGERING COST

Let’s face it – we all need to be more physically active. These days most of us spend a lot of time in the car or in front of a screen, and not enough time moving.

All that sitting is costing us a bundle because it contributes to weight problems, obesity, chronic disease and, as a result, health care costs.

In fact, the accumulation of direct and indirect costs due to no physical activity, being overweight, and obesity for the people of Maine is more than $2.5 billion in medical costs, worker’s compensation and lost productivity, according to a 2004 study.

Fortunately, getting active doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it can be fun and easy, and our state parks offer lots of opportunity in every season, including swimming, fishing, canoeing and kayaking, hunting, hiking, bird watching and bicycling. Several parks remain staffed in the winter and offer groomed cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing, ice skating and ice fishing.

When more than 2 million people visit state parks annually, that use creates significant wear and tear. To maintain our parks and historic sites and achieve their full potential, we must invest in them.

A 2004 engineering study identified $33 million in need across the system. Factoring for inflation, that total is closer to $40 million.

In 2007, voters approved a bond question that included $7.5 million for investment in parks. The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL) put the money to work, completing 26 major projects at 14 locations across the state, and in the process created 60 jobs for every $1 million spent, many of them in rural areas.

INVESTMENT IN OURSELVES

Projects included six new playgrounds that have drawn more families to the parks, 10 new restroom and shower buildings, a new group picnic shelter, and upgrades to four water systems, eight power systems and nine sanitary systems.

Structural repairs at Fort Popham and Colonial Pemaquid, Admiral Robert E. Peary’s summer home on Eagle Island, and the Major Colburn House, from where Benedict Arnold departed on his long march to Quebec, also were made.

Yet the need for investment remains. Across the state, antiquated plumbing, electrical and sewer systems need replacement. Outdated toilets and inadequate playgrounds discourage use, and lack of access keeps disabled visitors from enjoying many sites. The kiln at the Katahdin Ironworks is at risk. Fort Knox, Fort McClary and Fort William Henry all require masonry repairs.

On Nov. 2, Maine voters will have the opportunity to continue to invest in these places they hold so dear. Question 3 contains $500,000 for state parks and facilities managed by BPL.

It can leverage an additional $500,000 in federal funds, accomplishing $1 million in repairs and renovations and creating 60 construction jobs.

An investment in parks, lands and historic sites is an investment in ourselves – in our health, in our history, and in a strong economic future.

I ask you to continue your support for our state parks, lands and historic sites by voting for Question 3.

 

– Special to The Press Herald