The Little Hoover Commission found the state-run park system "obsolete," its staffing "ossified," and its relationships with partners deteriorating.
Their report says parks that lack statewide significance should be transferred to local or regional agencies.
It recommends hiring managers with strategic planning and entrepreneurial skills in addition to law enforcement training.
Stuart Drown with the Commission says revenue generated by state parks should not "supplant" money from the state budget.
DROWN: "The Commission looks for ways to run things more efficiently and so its first recommendation is never more money. But parks are a public good and they deserve taxpayer support."
The report says general fund support has decreased for nearly
35 years and the department lacks modern business tools to become
more self-sufficient.