Two state parks receive community service award

The Friends of Van Riper and Craig Lake State Parks have received the Michigan Recreation and Parks Association 2012 Community Service Award in recognition of the group’s support of key infrastructure improvements at Van Riper State Park.

In recent years, the Friends group has brought WIFI Internet access to the modern campground at Van Riper State Park and raised enough money to purchase a new ADA accessible play structure for the park’s day-use area. Future plans include adding an ADA compliant swing to the play area.

“In addition to their instrumental role in supporting these improvements, the Friends group has also organized ‘Yuletide in the Park,’ a new summer season family fun event for campers and park visitors,” said park supervisor Doug Barry. “We wanted to recognize these efforts by nominating the Friends group for the MRPA Community Service Award, and are thrilled that they were chosen as this year’s recipients.”

Friends of Van Riper and Craig Lake State Parks members accepted the award in East Lansing on March 14.

“We would like to encourage new members to sign up and get involved with these sorts of projects that enhance our state parks,” said Friends group president Carl Hosang. “To join, attend one of our monthly meetings at Van Riper or just call the park for information.”

The Friends of Van Riper and Craig Lake State Parks was founded in October 2009. The non-profit group works to enhance the experience of visitors to both state parks. Members pay annual dues of $5. For more information about the Friends of Van Riper and Craig Lake State Parks and the current playground campaign you may contact the Van Riper State Park main office at 906-339-4461, or attend one of the Friends group’s meetings the second Tuesday of each month at the park.