|
LANSING―Twenty-three state forest campgrounds, including
many in the Upper Peninsula, that were slated for
closure will remain open through the end of the fiscal
year under legislation recently signed into law.
State Sen. Tom Casperson, R-Escanaba, worked to
procure the necessary funding with Gov. Snyder and
colleagues, Sens. Howard Walker, R-Traverse City, and
John Moolenaar, R-Midland. Casperson has also sponsored
Senate Bill 332, which would allow for the transfer of
ownership of the campgrounds to local units of
government who want to own them on a long-term basis.
“The important thing is U.P. forest campgrounds will
remain open,” said Casperson. “I thank Gov. Snyder for
his commitment to fund these campgrounds while we pursue
other long-term solutions. This could include
transferring the sites to local units of government who
want to own and operate them. We were reminded this week
that tourism is a massive part of Michigan’s economy, so
it cannot be overemphasized how important it is to keep
our campgrounds open.”
According to the Michigan Economic Development
Corporation, Michigan saw the largest one-year increase
in tourism spending in state history. Tourism by
out-of-state visitors was greater than spending by
Michigan residents for the first time ever.
Gov. Snyder thanked the senators for their work.
“These lawmakers have been diligent advocates for
their districts and for Michigan tourism dollars in
their work to keep these campgrounds open,” Snyder said.
“It was a pleasure working with them to make this
happen.”
Sen. Walker thanked the administration and the state
Department of Natural Resources for working to ensure
the campgrounds stay open.
“I am thankful for the cooperation of the governor
and the department in securing funding,” Walker said.
“For the sake of our residents and the millions of
visitors who enjoy the natural wonders Michigan’s
campgrounds provide, it was critical that this money was
safeguarded.”
Sen. Moolenaar also expressed his appreciation.
“These are the gems of the region and we are glad the
department has realized their importance for northern
Michigan’s commerce and tourism,” said Moolenaar.
The campgrounds will remain open until other options
can be determined.
|
