Memorial Day Holiday Should Translate into Big Weekend for KS State Parks

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — After a dismal season at the state's lakes last summer, Kansas parks officials are hoping a strong Memorial Day weekend will give the parks department an economic boost. The Wichita Eagle reportsthat toxic algae and extreme heat caused a sharp drop in visitors to state waterways last summer, causing a tight budget for the state parks department.  Linda Lanterman, acting director of the Kansas Department of Parks, Wildlife and Tourism, says even with a one-time supplement of $800,000 from the state, the department's budget is tight. She says a Memorial Day weekend with plenty of visitors to the state parks would help end the fiscal year on a good note. The state's new budget year begins July 1. Permits to enter a state park for a day sell for $4.20 per vehicle.