Washington State Parks News Releases

News Release 13-006

Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
1111 Israel Road S.W., P.O. Box 42650, Olympia, WA 98504-2650, (360) 902-8500
Don Hoch, Director

Media Advisory – Capitol ceremony commemorates 100 years of Washington State Parks

OLYMPIA – March 15, 2013 – The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission plays host to a ceremony with lawmakers and friends to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Washington State Parks system. The Legislature created the State Board of Park Commissioners on March 19, 1913.

Who: Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, Washington State Parks Foundation, Gov. Jay Inslee, legislators, past commissioners, partners and friends.

What: 100th birthday ceremony

When: 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, March 19

Where: State Reception Room, State Capitol Legislative Building, Olympia

Why: Commemoration of State Parks’ 100th birthday, recognition of officials

About Washington State Parks
The Commission invites the public to celebrate the State Parks Centennial with events all over the state all year long; event information at www.parks.wa.gov/events/. In addition to events, the public is invited to celebrate by visiting and enjoying their Washington state parks in 2013.

As State Parks celebrates its 100th year, it faces a challenging financial situation caused by recession-related reductions and a rapid shift away from general fund support to financing based primarily on user fees. In 2013, the State Parks and Recreation Commission has taken the position that State Parks needs a “right mix” of funding, to include both user fees and general tax support, since state parks benefit all citizens’ health, economy and quality of life.

The Washington State Park system includes more than 100 developed parks and properties totaling more than 110,000 acres, including 7,000 campsites, 35 interpretive centers and 400 miles of cross-state trails. State Parks provides a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities and statewide programs that include Trails, Winter Recreation and Boating Safety. Its mission includes stewardship of natural, cultural and historic resources.

Media Contact: Virginia Painter, Public Affairs Director, 360-902-8562
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