CTFishTalk.com: Proposed Legislation Aims to Spruce Up State Parks System - Connecticut Conservation & DEP ( CT Conservation & DEP ) - A Community Built for Connecticut Fisherman.

perfect hook set · Joined: 24 Feb 2008 Posts: 1069 Location: Danbury

Governor Rell: Proposed Legislation Aims to Spruce Up State Parks System

Governor M. Jodi Rell today submitted testimony to the General Assembly’s Environment Committee regarding her legislative proposal to create a new program that will invest $15 million in the state’s park and forest system. The State Parks and Forests Stewardship Program will provide for the proper preservation of state parks and forests. There are 138 state parks and forests throughout Connecticut.

"Our parks should be clean and well-kept with functioning facilities for Connecticut families," Governor Rell said. "Some of these parks have been neglected and are in need of capital repair and improvements. From picnic shelters to visitors’ centers to bathrooms, this is our opportunity to restore the luster of these jewels and enhance the public’s experience and enjoyment when visiting these treasures."

"Our state parks and forests are places where families can connect with each other, connect with nature, and connect with Connecticut’s role in history – from the founding of our nation through the industrial revolution. No other state park system in the country can match the diversity of Connecticut’s – its distinctive and unique landscapes and its charm and beauty.

"All our lives have become more hectic, faster, and more complicated. Families struggle to spend quality time with each other – either to just catch up or relax. That is why our state parks and forests are so valuable and so essential to our quality of life.

"On a day-trip through Connecticut, a family can visit Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill and ‘walk’ in the footprints left by dinosaurs millions of years ago, stop by Putnam Memorial State Park in Redding and learn about the foundation of this country and finish the day with a relaxing afternoon on the beaches of Sherwood Island State Park in Westport. Our state parks and forests are safe places for families to build a lifetime of memories."

The Governor launched the state’s No Child Left Inside initiative three years ago to get more families and children outdoors and into state parks and forests. The initiative promotes children’s health, connection with nature, and quality time for families.
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