ARIZONA STATE PARKS: For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona’s natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partners. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518. Contact by Email: pio(at)azstateparks.gov

State Parks Board Approves Entering Into Agreements With Rural Towns To Operate Parks

(Phoenix, AZ - March 18, 2010) - "After an unprecedented series of meetings with rural communities, the Arizona State Parks Board today voted to allow staff to enter into agreements to keep four State Parks open into the future although three would be managed by other entities. Two more agreements will extend the closure dates for Tonto Natural Bridge State Park and Roper Lake State Park," said Executive Director Renee Bahl.

"Management agreements are pending for the Town of Camp Verde and would keep Fort Verde State Historic Park open for one year. The City of Yuma has proposed that they would manage Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park for three years. The City of Tombstone would manage Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park for three years. The Arizona Historical Society agreement would keep Riordan Mansion State Historic Park open for three years."

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park got a reprieve when the Town of Payson agreed to assist financially in keeping that park open until September 27, 2010. Pending Commission approval, the Arizona Game and Fish Department will provide financial assistance to keep Roper Lake State Park open until June 3.

Ongoing discussions are being held to find financial solutions for Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, Alamo Lake State Park, Lost Dutchman State Park, Picacho Peak State Park and Red Rock State Park so they can stay open past their closing dates of June 3, 2010.

Jerome State Historic Park, McFarland State Historic Park, Oracle State Park, Homolovi State Park and Lyman Lake State Park are closed.

"The Arizona's State Park system must continue to provide the best park experience possible, draw visitors from around the world into these rural towns, and work with the communities. We are all committed to finding financial solutions to keep parks open and staffed appropriately," said Bahl.

If you would like more information about the pending closures of State Parks, please call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit AZStateParks.com. Follow us on twitter.com/AZStateParks.

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