The Delaware Canal State Park isn’t just another pretty place; it has economic value.
Last year, on July 4th weekend, several favorite spots along the canal exceeded capacity. The gates at the Virginia Forrest Recreation Area had to be closed due to overcrowding. Since the pandemic, the number of visitors has continued to grow along with their impact on the local economy.
Here are some enlightening statistics:
• Pennsylvania is one of the top states for spending on outdoor recreation, generating over $29 billion annually.
• This industry supports over 250,000 jobs, equating to $8.6 billion in wages and salaries.
• And the industry generates nearly $2 billion in tax revenue.
• The combined acreage of Pennsylvania parks and forests is twice the size of the State of Delaware.
• The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) manages 5,000 buildings, 141 dams, and 171 water treatment facilities.
• An extensive and aging infrastructure will require additional investment.
The current administration is aware of the economic impact of our parks. “The 2023- 24 bipartisan budget invests $112 million to improve state parks and forests and spur economic growth in the outdoor recreation industry.”
Investing in the industries that provide the best return on our tax dollars makes economic sense, and our park system fits the bill. The outdoor diversity available in our state parks makes Pennsylvania unique. It is a valuable resource and one worth the investment.
