DNR Encourages Marylanders To “Go Take A Hike” During State Forests And Parks Week May 22-31
 Park passes, now available online, are discounted $10 if purchased May 22-31

ANNAPOLIS — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) State Forest and Park Service and The Friends of Maryland State Forests and Parks, Inc., are encouraging Marylanders to “Go Take a Hike” – literally. During State Forests and Parks Week, May 22 through 31, parks around the state will be hosting hikers of all ages on their trails through the forest, on the beach, even across a rope bridge.

“As we continue to take measures to preserve Maryland’s natural resources, our state forests and parks are not to be overlooked,” said DNR Secretary C. Ronald Franks. “The environmental and societal impact they make on the state deserves all the support DNR, and the public, can muster. I congratulate every state forest and park employee and volunteer on a continued job well done.”

Getting to Maryland’s parks is easier than ever now that both resident and non-resident park passes can be purchased on the DNR website (http://dnr.maryland.gov). As an extra incentive for visiting a state park during State Forests and Parks Week, DNR is offering a $10 discount on park passes if purchased May 22-31. Resident passes normally $75 will be $65, while non-resident passes normally $100, will be sold for $90. Regular prices will apply again starting June 1.

“We celebrate State Forests and Parks Week to raise the awareness and appreciation of the “quality of life” benefits of these cultural, historical, and natural resources that exist for the benefit of all Marylanders,” said Tim Casey, president of The Friends of Maryland State Forests and Parks, Inc., a statewide organization. “This year’s theme, ‘Support Our State Forests and Parks,’ is very appropriate given the incredible dedication of the staff, both paid and volunteer, who manage each forest and park.”

Families with children age 11 and under can take advantage of special activities for kids at four Maryland state parks on Saturday, May 22, from 11 A.M. to 3 P.M. to help kick-off State Forests and Parks Week. All children who “Go Take a Hike” in one of these parks will be given a photographic memory of their hike, as well as a certificate indicating that they completed the hike. These activities are free and will continue as long as supplies last. The regular service charge for entering each park applies.
The parks hosting the “Go Take a Hike” children’s activities are:

Marylanders can find directions and more information about all of the state forests and parks by visiting http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/pfwma2.html. Questions about State Forests and Parks week should be directed to Roberta Dorsch, (301) 743-5928, rdorsch@dnr.state.md.us.
 
Posted May 18, 2004