On Tuesday, November 16th, Senator José M. Serrano received the George W. Perkins “Parks Champion” award from Parks and Trails New York, for his continued advocacy on behalf of New York’s State Parks.

I am honored to receive this prestigious award. Financially, this has been a tough year for parks, and thanks to the hard work of parks advocates such as Parks and Trails New York, elected officials, and most importantly an energized and vocal public, we were able to save our parks for the summer season. This summer saw some of the largest increases in state park usage, reinforcing the fact that parks play an important role in the lives of all New Yorkers.

Each year, Parks & Trails New York bestows their George W. Perkins Award on an individual or organization for outstanding parks and conservation leadership. The award is named in honor of George Perkins, who worked tirelessly to preserve the integrity of New York’s magnificent park system. This year, Senator Serrano and Assemblyman Steve Englebright received this award in recognition of their work on behalf of State Parks.

Parks & Trails New York is a statewide organization working to protect New York's parks. Founded in 1985, Parks & Trails New York has grown to over 5000 members and supporters from every region of the state. Their mission is to expand, protect and promote parks, trails, and open spaces throughout our state for use and enjoyment by all.