NYFalls.com Talk

WATKINS GLEN -- Louis Boisner once worked with a conservation group developing park trails in Vermont, so he appreciates the effort and money it takes to maintain parks.

Boisner, who hiked the gorge trail at Watkins Glen State Park with his family last week, wasn't surprised to learn that New York is looking at millions of dollars worth of needed work at Watkins Glen and other state parks.

Boisner also knows the state doesn't have that kind of money.

"It always needs constant maintenance because nature will move on without us," said Boisner, an architect who lives in Syracuse. "I understand we have to pick our priorities. I know the ultimate concern is health and safety. I think they did a lot of work here. If we are going to access it and keep it safe, we are going to have to invest more."

The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is aware of the needs at Watkins Glen and the other 212 parks and historic sites it operates.