By Elizabeth Redhead Kriston
The glittering
and shimmering waves reflect the afternoon sun.
Kayakers and
paddle boarders traverse the waters amongst the motor boats of fisherman whose
wake emits the pungent odors of gasoline and earthworms.
Children’s
laughter and screams of joy echo across the lake from the shoreline beach.
The lapping and
splashing of the water against the peppily shore lulls fisherman, perched on
the rocks above, into a deeper trance as they watch a red and white ball bob in
the ripples hoping it dives beneath the waterline indicating the bite of a
hungry fish.
Hikers traverse
the paths that wind over and around streams and between the trees where bears
and deer quietly hide waiting for the intruders to pass before continuing their
hunt for tasty snacks.
Heron and ducks
wade and float before suddenly diving into the cool water to retrieve their
lunch seemingly mocking the patient fishermen nearby with how easy it is to
catch a fish.
Campers collect
and pile wood into a ring of rocks preparing to build a fire for cooking dinner,
and later roasting marshmallows as they engage in a tradition as old as time:
gathering with loved ones to share stories and bond around the flickering and
warming flames.
Red checkered
cloths adorn the wooden picnic tables as family’s gather to celebrate birthdays
by sharing food and playing games.
Parents push
kids on swings and catch them at the bottom of slides lifting them into the air
and laughing together as they swing them around treating their child to the
sensation of flight.
Dogs leap
gleefully through the water chasing sticks and returning them to their owners
only to repeat this over and over.
Hunters stalk
their prey through the thick woods waiting patiently for the perfect shot of
their arrow or rifle.
Apartment
dwellers stretch out on the green grass and lounge under trees reading books,
relishing the fresh air.
Groups gather
for games of volleyball, Frisbee golf, horseshoes and corn hole laughing and
enjoying the comradery.
Park rangers
walk with children and adults teaching them about salamanders, birds, bears and
all sorts of flora and fauna. They teach orienteering and conservation. They
teach kayaking and camp songs for anyone who wants to learn
Walkers,
hikers, bikers, boaters, swimmers, fishers, birders, partiers, campers.
Families, individuals, young, old and in-betweens. The parks offer something
for everyone.
With so many
from all walks of life who use and love our parks, why is it that these parks
are always on the chopping block when it comes to state budgets (at least in
Pennsylvania)?
Our parks have endured a multitude of budget cuts over the
years. As a result, there are fewer rangers, lifeguards and maintenance staff.
The bathrooms and bath houses are being boarded up and are falling into disrepair.
Roads are rutted with giant pot holes. Trails are covered with fallen trees.
Beaches are closed. Playground equipment is outdated and unsafe. Picnic tables
are rotted and crumbling.
It is so sad to
see such beautiful resources being allowed to become deeply neglected. Our parks are important to many. Without them we would be lost. We must treasure them
and care for them. We must invest in them and keep them clean. We must save
them.
7 Ideas to Save Our Parks
1. Keep them clean
and follow the rules: Don't be a litter bug. When it says carry in and carry out that means take your trash with you!
2. Use them and
tell your friends and family about them: Spread the word about how much fun you had and the beauty you saw. Share photos and tell stories. Invite friends on outings and hikes. Open eyes to all our parks have to offer.
3. Volunteer to maintain them: You can join organized volunteer days; contact the ranger to organize one; or simply take some time to clean-up the litter as you hike or boat. Keeping them clean sends a strong message that we respect the privilege of having the parks for our use.
3. Volunteer to maintain them: You can join organized volunteer days; contact the ranger to organize one; or simply take some time to clean-up the litter as you hike or boat. Keeping them clean sends a strong message that we respect the privilege of having the parks for our use.
4. Write the
governor and state congress people about how much you love the parks: reaching out to those with the power to approve funding can be as easy as a phone call or as involved as showing up at their doorstep with your message.
6. Take part in
the educational programs: Many programs are free and just require a simple email registration. Use these programs and get your kids excited about nature and the parks. Many programs are geared to adult learners as well.
7. Use social
media to talk about and share your experiences (feel free to share this blog).
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