State’s New ‘Recreation Passport’ Could Rejuvenate State Parks and Rec

As of October 1, 2010 Michigan began its $10 Recreation Passport program to replace the old state park stickers.  The new Passport – which will appear on your license plate tab and registration – will get you into all Michigan state parks, recreation areas, and boat launches.  You can buy these by checking “YES” on your license plate renewal form at your local Secretary of State office or by purchasing one at state park offices.

The new program is necessary because state taxpayer General Fund support for Michigan parks and recreation was eliminated in 2004 due to budgetary pressure – resulting in an incredible shortfall in funding for State recreational areas.  This has led to staff cutbacks and a giant backlog of maintenance needs. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment:

“Over the past four years the state park budget has been reduced by $2.8 million each year. Permanent staffing of state parks has diminished nearly 15 percent since 2000. The park system has been unable to keep up with infrastructure repairs and replacements.”

Where will the money be used? The DNRE has identified approximately $340 million in infrastructure needs and repairs in state parks.  A percentage of the money will also allow for maintenance and improvements at state forest campgrounds and non-motorized trails.

The program needs strong participation to fully fund park and rec needs, but not to break even with the old program.  “If 50 percent of vehicle owners purchase a Recreation Passport each year, we will have enough to adequately fund park operations and start making some of the necessary repairs,” Recreation Division Chief Ron Olson. “We’d also put $2.3 million into the local park grant program and provide more than $600,000 to historic and cultural sites inside state parks.”  17% participation is needed for the program to match previous levels of funding.

Even if you don’t use the Parks very much your $10 also helps to maintain and preserve:

133 state forest campgrounds

For more information you can read these helpful FAQ‘s.