Ballot Measure to Save State Parks Submitted to State

Sunset over Malibu Lagoon State Park | Photo by IK's World Trip via Flickr

It's really happening. After two years of threats to close state parks, groups, including the California State Parks Foundation, have gotten together to put their own measure on the ballot. "We're done trying to convince them," the Foundation said in a e-mail newsletter this morning referencing politicians. "We're taking our case to the people."

The "State Parks and Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund," as it's called, would put aside money in the state treasury where it could only be spent on state parks, urban river parkways, wildlife, natural lands and ocean conservation programs--that means no raids on the budget, sparing us the drama of this last summer when some 80% of parks were under the threat of closure. The money would come from an $18 annual State Park Access Pass surcharge on all California vehicles, including motorcycles and recreational vehicles (larger commercial vehicles, mobile homes and permanent trailers would be exempt).

In turn, vehicles subject to the surcharge would receive free admission to all states parks. Currently, the cost to park for one day at some parks around Los Angeles are $10 or above. Out‐of‐state vehicles would continue to pay full entrance fees at parks.

In order for the measure to be on the ballot next November, enough signatures must be collected. The foundation is looking for volunteers to help out.