FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 19, 2003
CONTACT: Kathalyn Gaither, (850) 245-2112
Volunteers at Florida State Parks Benefit Taxpayers
-- 17 million reasons to appreciate
park volunteers --
TALLAHASSEE -- Volunteers in Florida’s award-winning
state parks are saving taxpayers more than $17.4 million every
year. This year alone, park volunteers contributed nearly one
million hours of work to the State – the equivalent of 449
full-time employment positions, almost half of the size of the
state park workforce.
“Florida's state parks offer unparalleled cultural and
outdoor experiences," said Department of Environmental
Protection Secretary David B. Struhs. “Dedicated volunteers
work with our professional staff to protect our natural,
historical and cultural resources and provide an enjoyable
experience for 18 million visitors annually. They are one of the
reasons people can continue to enjoy each natural gem for just a
few dollars a day."
More than 6,000 park volunteers help maintain the natural
beauty of Florida's beaches, waterways and trails. Volunteers
wear a variety of hats ranging from interpreters, educators,
tour guides and greeters to landscape artists, wildlife
caretakers and invasive plant removers.
“While many states are closing parks and reducing staff,
Florida state parks continue to grow,” said Mike Bullock,
Director of DEP's Division of Recreation and Parks. “Florida
is proving that an investment in environmental protection and
outdoor recreation provides a significant economic boost to
rural communities."
Recognized in 1999 as best in the nation, Florida’s state
park system is one of the largest in the country with 157 parks
covering more than 600,000 acres. Last year, Florida's parks
attracted 18.2 million visitors and pumped $574 million into
local economies. For more information about Florida’s state
park system and its volunteer program, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org.
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