Shutdown = no campers = lost park revenue

Posted at 11:49 AM on June 26, 2011 by Jon Gordon (0 Comments)

Sixty-seven state parks will close if a new budget is not in place by July 1. That means thousands of campers will lose out, and the parks will take a hit as well.

From the Pioneer Press:

With all those folks paying for camping reservations, vehicle permits, wood and concessions, the agency would expect to bring in more than $1 million that first week, and slightly less during subsequent weeks throughout the summer.

"Not only will these places be closed, but we'll be losing revenue for an already cash-strapped system,'' said Brett Feldman, executive director of the Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota.

Campers also spend $23 to $26 apiece a day - or $12 million a week - in nearby communities, according to Nelson.

"Shutting down parks right now would be like closing the Mall of America the day after Thanksgiving,'' Feldman