Save Orient Beach State Park

In an effort to close state budget shortfalls, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historical Preservation has recommended closing Orient Beach State Park. Orient Beach State Park is one of the few public beaches on the North Fork, serves over 110,000 people annually, and is an engine for the local economy. Its closure will undoubtedly have an effect on North Fork tourism. Over 5,500 people have joined a coalition on Facebook to oppose these budget cuts. For more details and to stay updated on this issue, join the coalition against state park closures on Facebook.

See this Newsday article to find out what else Long Islanders are doing to help.

Read more to find out what you can do.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

• Attend the Rally on Monday, March 1st at 2:00 p.m.

• Call the Governor's Office at 518-474-8390.

• Write to Governor Paterson to express your concerns.
  

Copy and paste the following text into an e-mail or letter to voice your concerns.

Governor David A. Paterson
State Capitol
Albany, NY 12224

Dear Governor Paterson,

I am seriously concerned about your proposal to reduce state funding and close some of New York's best state parks. In particular, Orient Beach State Park is one of the few public beaches on the North Fork of Long Island, serves over 110,000 people annually, and is an engine for the local economy. Its closure will undoubtedly have an effect on the tourism industry in our area. I urge you to reconsider these budget cuts and find a way for Orient Beach State Park and others to remain open.

Thank you for your consideration of this important matter. 

Sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]