On February 19, the New York State Parks Commissioner slated 41 parks for outright closure. These parks have been bequeathed in perpetuity for public enjoyment and conservation. Outright closure of these parks, and others outside the region, would seem to be incompatible with this spirit of conservation.

Ironically, it may be that closing state parks will be counterintuitive in saving the state money. One reason is added security, because there are no rangers or maintenance workers to act as guardians against trespassers. Additionally, the fiscal year begins in the early spring, just at the time when revenue for the parks would begin. Keeping full access to the parks during high season make more financial sense than closing them outright. A closed park brings in no revenue at all.

The more logical approach to this subject would be to cut more services across the board. This way, locations donated to the public trust can be used for the purpose they were intended for. Albany needs to know that access to public land should be preserved in whatever way it can. There may be a budget crisis, but there may be a better way to reallocate available funds so that no park is closed to the public for good.