The Maryland Rangers Association joins Lieutenant Governor Boyd Rutherford in welcoming everyone to help celebrate State Parks Week, April 10-16 and, on behalf of all State Park Rangers, extends its gratitude to the Hogan administration for their continued recognition and support of Maryland’s State Parks and the dedicated staff who work tirelessly to keep them open, accessible and safe. Through his unfailing advocacy and initiatives such as the State Park Bucket List, Lieutenant Governor Rutherford continues to take a vital leadership role in promoting Maryland’s premier State Park system and encouraging the appreciation, exploration and enjoyment of the incredible natural resources available within a short drive of every Marylander.

 

As amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, and associated restrictions, the Hogan Administration has recognized that access to State Parks is essential to the physical and mental health and wellness of Maryland citizens. With most other activities deemed less safe during the pandemic, Maryland's State Park gates remained open and Park Rangers facilitated responsible access to citizens desperate to remain active while adhering to health and safety guidelines.

 

The Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, Adrienne A. Jones, recently recognized that "Outdoor recreational opportunities have been a lifeline for so many during this pandemic." As announced recently by Lieutenant Governor Rutherford, State Parks hosted 21.5 million visits during 2020, a 45% increase over the previous record attendance. This unprecedented gravitation toward State Parks revealed the value of having public open space preserved as a contributor to the quality of life in Maryland, and Rangers are proud to be entrusted with the protection of Maryland’s treasured natural resources for the enjoyment of current and future generations.

 

"Today's Maryland Rangers are honored to continue their proud tradition of providing safe outdoor recreational experiences for Maryland families seeking respite in a way that only nature can offer, and humbled to be able to contribute in a meaningful way to the State's pandemic response," said Ranger Dean Hughes, President of the Maryland Rangers Association.
 

The Maryland Rangers Association is a professional organization that supports and advocates on behalf of Maryland State Park Rangers. Visit us at mdrangers.org.