Page 58 - Flathead Beacon // 11.5.14

58 | NOVEMBER 5, 2014 FLATHEADBEACON.COM
OUTDOORS
PLANNING A NEW FUTURE FOR
MONTANA’S STATE PARKS
Lone Pine State Park. Wayfarers. Wild Horse Island.
This scenic area is home to many of Montana’s most popular state parks.
Through September, more than 500,000 people visited state parks in Northwest Montana, a slight bump over last year, according to Montana Fish,
Wildlife and Parks data.
Statewide, the system of public parks
attracted 1.94 million people, 3 percent more than a year ago, meaning 2014 is on pace to be the fourth consecutive record- breaking year for visitation.
With a total of 55 public state parks, Montana has the largest parks system compared to neighboring states, including Idaho, Wyoming and South Dakota.
Yet the operating budget and staffing levels are among the lowest in the region, creating a dilemma for managers hoping to maintain resources and infrastructure.
To address longstanding needs and challenges at these popular public recre- ation sites, the Montana State Parks divi- sion is proposing a significant makeover of the entire system that would change the strategy for managing and funding sites
Whitefish Lake State Park.
BEACON FILE PHOTO
While visitation and demand increases at public recreation sites, the state is struggling with inadequate funding and deferred maintenance
BY DILLON TABISH
DON’T GET STUCK IN THE COLD!
FREE BATTERY CHECK
See dealer for details.
www.eisingermotors.com
HWY 93 N & RESERVE, KALISPELL
406-755-5555
Open: Mon - Fri 7am to 6pm Sat. 8am to 5pm