As the debate continues in Harrisburg over the state budget, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has released a list of parks it may have to close -- if a state Senate version of the budget is successful.

The list, which includes many parks on the northern Alleghenies, is a budget proposal. If the plan goes through, Bendigo State Park in Elk County and Clear Creek State Park in Jefferson County would close.

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Complete List: Proposed Budget Reduction In The Bureau Of State Parks

May 14, 2009 News Release From The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

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Earlier this month, officials at Bendigo State park said the popularity of the park has grown as people look for inexpensive vacations close to home. The park is also connected to two other state parks Elk and Kinzua Bridge, which is in McKean County.

Elk County officials said they have a meeting scheduled with state Rep. Matt Gabler and a representative of Lt. Gov. Joe Scarnati to see how their parks can stay open.

In Jefferson County, residents said the park is essential to the survival of several small communities, including the town of Siegel.

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