Monday, March 1 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.,
The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL) will hold “State Parks Day” next week at the Hall of Flags, State Capitol Building.
BPL, its partners and friends will have displays showcasing the many activities and recreational opportunities available at Maine’s 48 state parks and historic sites. Information about capital improvements at the parks and historic sites, resulting from the successful 2007 November bond, also will be presented.
Participating in the event in addition to BPL will be: Hannaford, Wicked Joe’s Coffee, Friends of Maine State Parks, Maine Island Trail Association, Friends of Fort Knox, Ferry Beach Nature Center, Friends of Colonial Pemaquid, and Northern Forest Canoe Trail.
Maine’s state park and historic sites drew 2.3 million visitors last year, an almost 8 percent increase over the previous year. The state park system contributes about $100 million annually to Maine’s economy. For every $1 invested in the park system, there is a $25 return.
2010 marks the 75th anniversary of the Maine state park system. In 1935, the Maine Legislature created the first State Park Commission. Located in Presque Isle, Aroostook State Park, Maine’s first state park, was formed in 1938, with a donation of 100 acres from local businessmen.
For more information, go to: http://www.parksandlands.com
