Georgia State Park System Among Top 3 in the Nation

ATLANTA, July 23, 2007 — Sure, the caretakers of Georgia's 63 state parks and historic sites are a little biased. They think Georgia has the best natural and cultural resources in the country. And soon they might have an award to prove it. Georgia's State Parks, Recreation and Historic Sites Division (PRHSD) is a finalist for the National Recreation and Park Association's 'Gold Medal Excellence in Park & Recreation Management' award-- the most prestigious award a recreation agency can achieve. Georgia shares the honor with state park systems from Utah and Tennessee. The winner will be announced September 26 at the 2007 NRPA Congress & Exposition in Indianapolis. Judges look for excellence in categories such as long-range planning, resource management, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development, volunteerism and an ability to meet the needs of a diverse population. Part of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, PRHSD manages more than 84,000 acres that protect natural environments and animal habitat, preserve historic resources, and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation. Despite weathering budget cuts the past five years, the division continues to serve more than 10 million visitors each year and consistently scores highly on customer satisfaction surveys. 'Georgia's popularity as a great place to live, work and play is due in large part to our rich diversity and careful stewardship of our natural and cultural resources,' said Becky Kelley, director of the Parks, Recreation and Historic Sites Division. 'Our team has worked hard to care for these priceless assets and is proud that we provide a wide variety of opportunities to experience nature, learn about our state's history or just enjoy having fun outdoors. Winning the Gold Medal will showcase our great state and will be a tribute to all that we do to conserve our resources and provide places for citizens and visitors to have a great time, every time.' The finalist application process included a short video produced with assistance from Georgia Public Broadcasting. An edited version can be viewed online at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org. The video highlights successes such as the park system's 75th anniversary celebration during 2006, the creation of the agency's first strategic plan, and corporate partnerships such as the management of Tallulah Gorge and Sprewell Bluff state parks with Georgia Power. Also touted is the growth of Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites, as well as volunteerism and fundraising. Georgia's state parks and historic sites are as diverse as the state itself. Overnight accommodations range from campgrounds to cottages, and from lodge rooms to yurts. Recreational offerings include canoe and boat rental, fishing docks, swimming pools and lakeside beaches, hiking and biking trails, horseback riding trails, miniature golf as well as championship golf, and ranger programs. Picnic shelters can be reserved for birthday parties, family reunions and other large groups. For more information, go to www.GeorgiaStateParks.org, or call 1-800-864-7275 for a free brochure.