State Parks Facing Budget Crunch

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By Aaron Hepker

Story Created: Dec 28, 2009 at 11:00 AM CST

Story Updated: Dec 28, 2009 at 11:00 AM CST

DES MOINES (AP) - Weak state revenues led the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to lose 25 percent of its general-fund money in the last year, and park areas that don't generate money could be roped off.

Department of Natural Resources director Richard Leopold says all parks will remain open in summer 2010, but selected parts could be closed.

Leopold says the state's parks are getting record attendance, but staffing has dropped from 300 summer workers to an estimated 40 workers in summer 2010.

Trails, parks and beaches could be roped off.

The department is also hoping volunteer groups can help make up for the fewer maintenance workers, while federal stimulus money and private foundations can alleviate some of the financial burden.

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