Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn visited Delaware Canal State Park last week. She brought a message of concern about budget shortfalls for parks statewide. Cassie Miller fielded the story for the Penn Capital-Star.

Dunn warned that ongoing failure to fund vital repairs could ultimately hurt the state’s $29-billion outdoor recreation industry.

Her presence at the park underscored its own capital shortfalls. The site presently needs an estimated $75,000 investment in its bridge, aqueduct, lock, wastegate, and river wall.

“I cannot stress how important it is that we do not miss this opportunity to address our infrastructure needs so that the outdoors continue to be a destination for millions of Pennsylvanians and out-of-state visitors,” Dunn said.

She noted that state park repairs necessitated by normal wear and tear are being exacerbated by the effects of climate change and flooding.

“It serves as a reminder that our trails, dams, campgrounds, bridges, and educational centers require a financial investment,” she noted.

Last year, a State Representative from Carbon County prepared (but hasn’t yet reintroduced) a bill that would levy a fee for park visitors, with proceeds going to upkeep.

In response, a DCNR spokesperson commented that the agency has “no plans” to implement any fees, believing that Pennsylvania parks should be free to all visitors.

More on this story is at the Penn Capital-Star.