Fundraising Appeal to Benefit State Parks Continues

A campaign to raise funds to improve Texas state parks is experiencing success.

A $4.6 million revenue shortfall due to heat, drought, wildfires, and an overall drop in visitors to Texas State Parks, spurred the department to issue an appeal for financial help.

$335,000 dollars has been raised in the first three weeks of the appeal, including one single gift of $250,000.

“We’re hopeful that with more like that, we will reach our 4.6 million goal,” said Carter Smith, Texas Parks and Wildlife executive director. “But every donation, no matter the size, is important and appreciated.”

In a press release, Parks and Wildlife officials suggest three ways to help the cause. You can:

• Visit http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/helpparks and make a tax-deductible donation.
• Make a donation when renewing motor vehicle registration.
• Visit state parks often, since visitor fees pay for about half of park system operating costs.

More information is available at www.texasstateparks.org.