Given the current budget situation with California State Parks, and the need for generating more revenue, CA should reconsider its highly restrictive dog policy. CA State Parks should allow leashed dogs on the majority of its trails and beaches.

I enjoy hiking regularly with my family dog, and view the CA State Park policy on dogs not only as unfair and unnecessary, but also as a lost opportunity.

Most people who enjoy outdoor recreation also have and love their family dog. Since there are so many restrictions for dogs at CA State Parks, many families must recreate elsewhere or have to spend alot of hard-earned money boarding their dogs. For many families, these dog restrictions limit the amount of visits to CA State Parks per year due to boarding costs and associated stresses. The CA State Park dog policy places an unnecessary hardship on hard-working, tax-paying families who wish to support and enjoy the treasures offered by their CA State Parks.

Personally, my family and I camp and hike about 10-15 times a year. However, the current dog policy limits our ability to visit CA State Parks. As many people who have family dogs do, we limit our visits to CA State Parks, and gravitate towards National Forests or other public lands for the majority of our outdoor experiences. Thankfully these other options are available, but we are often frustrated by our inability to visit these CA State treasures due to their restrictive dog policies.

CA State is missing out on potential revenue-creating opportunities. CA State Parks could realistically offer a entrance fees for dog owners. Most dog-loving families would graciously pay an additional fee so that their family friend may join them on a hike. CA State Parks could also charge higher enforcement penalties for those who disobey leash laws or do not pick-up after their pets. This would further generate revenue, and encourage responsible dog ownership. Revenue from entrance fees and enforcement fines generated, along with the increased visitation dollars stimulated by more dog-loving families visiting CA State Parks more often, would overwhelmingly benefit the CA State Park budget. A more open dog policy would also open the door for a larger number of CA residents to experience the wonders of CA State Parks more often, increasing their experiences and undoubtably their support for CA State Parks.

I realize that certain historic sites and sensitive areas might be more well-suited for a more restricted dog policy; however, I think that the vast majority of CA State Park trails and beaches could be reasonably opened to dogs with leash restrictions, allowing many families to be able to more easily enjoy and support CA State Parks.

For me, it is difficult to reconcile how many CA State Parks allow off-highway vehicles, horses, bikes, large RVs, but do not allow familiies to bring their leashed dog on its trail systems and beaches. Family dogs not only provide companionship, but also alert people of potential dangers, providing for increased safety and security for visitors. Dogs are an important part of many peoples families and lives, and should be treated accordingly.

Thank you so much for your consideration.