California May Close Parks to Cut Budget

"Joggers, surfers, artists and other avid users of California's state parks and beaches expressed outrage and disbelief as they absorbed word of Schwarzenegger's proposal, which would shutter even famed San Simeon State Park near Hearst Castle. In addition to the 48 closures, the governor suggested cutting back lifeguards at 16 state beaches."

"Of the state's 278 parks, those slated for closure are the least used, produce the least revenue and are the easiest to secure, according to parks officials."

"If the budget takes effect as written, gates would be put up at the entrances to 43 of the parks, which would be patrolled and maintained but would not be open to the public, said state parks Director Ruth Coleman. Others would be partially closed. For instance, one of the two campgrounds at Mt. San Jacinto State Park would be closed. The sites slated for closure include Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park in the state's far northwest corner and Salton Sea State Recreation Area in the southeast."

Thanks to Vern Sanders