Directors and Conference Attendees,
What a difference a year makes! What an impact COVID-19 made in 2020. Many of you had registered for the September 2020 conference which, sadly, was cancelled. Though by all reports the virtual conference was well-received, it is not the same as spending time together and the sharing of opportunities that an in-person conference provides. We are very pleased that it has worked out for Pennsylvania to host us in the scenic Laurel Highlands region in 2021.
In recent years, annual attendance to America’s State Parks has been at record levels with more than 800 million visitors to the nearly 6800 areas. Though many parks were closed during portions of 2020 due to the pandemic, most of the state park systems had greater visitation in 2020 than they did in 2019, and some states even had record visitation. How is that for demonstrating relevance and highlighting how essential state parks are! As we all know, memories made in parks last a lifetime. Outdoor experiences in parks and natural areas are increasingly being recognized for the benefits to our physical, social, and mental health. Parks are also important to the well-being of local economies.
Each year, we come together to share innovations and challenges, celebrate achievements, and explore the future of conservation and outdoor recreation. The annual conference is an opportunity for state park directors and senior staff members to interact with our partners from the related federal agencies, the federal and provincial parks of Canada, and our many affiliate non-profit organizations. We are especially pleased to recognize the increasing support and participation provided by the vendor community.
Director John Hallas and the Pennsylvania state parks team have worked diligently to plan for a very informative and hospitable conference at the Seven Springs Mountain Resort. It is centered in an area close to numerous attractions and natural areas, from Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater to Ohiopyle and Laurel Hill state parks, and so much more.
Whether it will be your first time attending or you are a veteran of our conference, we thank you for the leadership and support you provide America’s State Parks. We are glad to see you here in the Keystone State!
Sincerely,
Lewis R. Ledford
Executive Director