Summary

Every year, thousands of King County Parks’ volunteers contribute their energy and time – more than 55,000 hours annually – to the upkeep and improvement of these parks, trails, and natural lands

Story

WHEREAS, King County Parks manages more than 200 parks, and 28,000 acres of open space, important to this region’s quality of life; and

WHEREAS, King County has one of the best trail networks in the nation, with more than 175 miles of regional trails and 215 miles of backcountry trails that connect communities and provide pleasant routes for walking, running, cycling, mountain biking, hiking, rollerblading, and horseback riding; and

WHEREAS, King County Parks provides a wide variety of recreational opportunities that contribute to healthy lifestyles, and improves access to parks and trails, including in underserved King County communities; and

WHEREAS, every year, thousands of King County Parks’ volunteers contribute their energy and time – more than 55,000 hours annually – to the upkeep and improvement of these parks, trails, and natural lands; and

WHEREAS, volunteers clean-up, remove invasive weeds, plant native trees and shrubs, construct and maintain trails, assist at special events, teach skills at teen programs, donate professional services, and much more; and

WHEREAS, these volunteers play an integral part in the success of our restoration projects, resulting in improved habitat for fish and wildlife and better water quality; and

WHEREAS, volunteers help County government provide better services to the public, save taxpayers money, and keep parks and trails open to the public;

NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Metropolitan King County Council and the King County Executive, hereby proclaim
November 5, 2015 as

and salute the volunteers for their valuable service and dedication to King County Parks and express our appreciation for their vital contribution to the quality of life of all county residents.

DATED this second day of November, 2015.