Recent recognition as the nation’s best park system has Michigan officials hoping for a boost in tourism

By SHANNAN O’NEIL
Capital News Service
LANSING- Each year a group of Finnish hunters come to Michigan to hunt in the state parks. State officials hope that recent recognition as the nation’s best will bring yet more visitors to the system. Four states were in the running for the 2011 National Recreation and Park Association Gold Medal: Michigan, Florida, Missouri and North Carolina. It is the first time that the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association recognized Michigan with the top honor. The national recognition could expand tourism, said Michelle Begnoche, senior communications specialist for Travel Michigan and the Michigan Economic Development Corp.