Vermont State Parks
May Undergo Facelift

Gov. Jim Douglas and Natural Resources Secretary George Crombie last week announced the creation of a commission on the Future of State Parks, an initiative that will usher in the most significant changes in Vermont’s State Parks in decades.

"Our state parks play a crucial role in keeping us connected to our environment," Governor Douglas said. "In order to ensure that these resources remain accessible to future generations of Vermonters, this commission brings together leaders in business, education, social services, the environment and others as it embarks on the largest state park renewal effort in the state’s history."

Win Smith, the owner and president of Sugarbush Resort in Warren, and Tom Hark, the founding president of the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps, are the chairman and vice-chairman of the commission. Their recommendations to the governor are expected by Jan. 31.

The commission will work toward massive improvements to Vermont’s state parks using a host of resources, none more important than an eager workforce comprised of some of the state’s young and underemployed residents. To that end, Human Resources Secretary Cynthia LaWare pledged her agency’s commitment to finding young and underemployed workers.

"Vermont State Parks will need to utilize every available individual to help in this rebuilding effort," Secretary LaWare said.

Crombie said the commission will go a long way toward restoring the parks to the center of the state’s recreational and environmental pursuits.

"Our state parks, places where Vermonters engage one-on-one with the environment, are in need of innovation," Secretary Crombie said. "This commission will make the parks once again an important part of life in Vermont."