Corps may face tough decision on Rayburn parks
By JIMMY GALVAN Managing Editor

Newsboy photo/Jimmy Galvan A CLOSED SIGN marks a loop at Twin Dikes park that is closed during the winter months.The Corps closes the loop in order to save money. Recent budget cutbacks are hurting the Corps' running of parks and could lead to the closure of the parks.

Once again funding issues has forced the Corps of Engineers to look into the possibility of closing some public parks on Lake Sam Rayburn.

David LaRue, parks manager for the Corps, said federal funding issues has plagued the parks systems in recent years and this year is no exception.

"Our recreation program has been flat for a number of years," LaRue said. "Back in 2005 we had quite a significant cut and there is no change on the horizon."

LaRue admitted there is a chance that the Corps may have to close parks in regards to the lack of federal funding.

"If we face another budget cut, then there is the possibility that we may have to face that type of action again," LaRue said. "It's not planned right now, but we are just hanging on right now."

Due to the lack of funds in 2005, the Corps was forced to hand over parks in Etole, Jackson Hill, Monteray, South Powell to existing marinas in the areas.

LaRue said he doesn't believe there is any help in sight for the coming year. In fact, he said this year's budget was lower this year than last year's budget.

Kenneth Young, a camping enthusiast, said he is working to help raise funds for the beleaguered Corps park's system. He has already called on federal help from Congressman Kevin Brady's office and is now turning his attention to area businesses which thrive off the recreational aspects of campers," Young said. "I'm also encouraging all campers, truck, camping trailers, boat dealerships and sporting goods stored as well as those that can influence to call these listed numbers below and voice our concern. I might emphasize that it is too late after the parks have been closed."

One idea that is being tossed around is opening up the Twin Dikes park year-round to lure Winter Texans to come and stay from October through February at the park.

"We have tossed around that idea but as far as any hard, fast plans, no we haven't decided on that yet," LaRue said.

Back in 2005, the Corps had to find ways to reduce expenditures and one way to accomplish that was to shut down portions of parks during winter and operate the park with volunteers instead of paid attendants.

LaRue said that at Twin Dikes, there is one loop that is open during the winter months with the rest of it shut down.

"That was just a costcutting move because our visitation is a whole lot less during the winter," LaRue said.

LaRue stressed that there is no talk of closing any of the existing Corps parks but said "the possibility exists."

"There is nothing targeted at the moment," LaRue said.