Michigan's state parks are the best in the nation

We sometimes take for granted our wonderful state parks and recreation areas in Michigan, but the National Recreation and Park Association obviously doesn't, because the group awarded Michigan its 2011 Gold Medal, recognizing Michigan's parks as the top state park system in the nation.

The medal is awarded each year out of four finalists; Michigan beat out North Carolina, Florida and Missouri, for the top spot.

"We are very proud to receive this award, and I want to recognize the employees of the Parks and Recreation Division who have worked hard to make sure our 99 state parks and recreation areas remain excellent places for our citizens and visitors to experience Michigan's abundant and amazing natural resources," says DNR Director Rodney Stokes. "This is the result of teamwork, talent and vision that is aimed at protecting our special places, and also making sure that visitors have an enjoyable, high quality experience."

The Gold Medal is given to states that demonstrate excellence in long-range planning, resource management, and agency recognition. Each parks agency is judged on its ability to serve the public.

In the DNR's application for consideration, it highlighted innovations like the recreation passport, a $10 optional fee when residents renew their vehicle registrations with the Secretary of State. The passport is a simple sticker on a vehicle's license plate that allows them access to all state parks -- which greatly simplified the previous parks pass system, as well as increasing resident participation. The fees go toward supporting parks, boating access sites, and state forest recreation programs, as well as a grant program for local parks.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Rodney Stokes, Michigan Department of Natural Resources