WHEREAS, California’s state parks are a reflection of the state’s history, natural and cultural heritage, and ideals; and

WHEREAS, The California state park system contains the largest and most diverse holdings of any state agency in the nation that can model healthy, natural, and sustainable ecosystems and commemorate important cultural traditions or historic events; and

WHEREAS, The Department of Parks and Recreation is entrusted with the preservation, management, and interpretation of the resources within the state park system that includes beaches, historic monuments, lakes and reservoirs, lighthouses, museums, natural and cultural preserves, off-highway vehicle recreation areas, and parks, which include over 340 miles of coastline, 5,200 miles of trails, and 15,000 campsites; and

WHEREAS, These natural and historic places are important to improving and protecting the quality of life for all Californians by providing remarkable recreation and learning opportunities, scenic landscapes and open space, and critical and unique habitat that enables the state to meet its climate goals; and

WHEREAS, Continued economic success and enjoyment derived from California’s state park system depends on maintaining clean water, healthy ecosystems, and expanding public access for a growing state; and

WHEREAS, California State Parks Week’s theme for 2024 is “This is Where You Live” to encourage Californians to celebrate and recognize the beauty and history of where they live; and

WHEREAS, California State Parks Week encourages people to explore new places, nourish their health and well-being, support climate resilience, celebrate community and culture, and care for shared lands; and

WHEREAS, California State Parks Week will include the opening of the newest state park in nearly a decade, Dos Rios, which is found in the San Joaquin Valley and will provide both recreational opportunities and protection for critical floodplain habitat; now, therefore, be it