New Web site offers state parks information

AUGUSTA – The state Bureau of Parks and Lands has started a Web site designed to help searchers find information about activities such as hiking and access for people with disabilities.

The Web site address is www.state.me.us/doc/parks. The site contains the following:

. A searchable database that allows users to choose a region and activity, such as the Maine Lakes and Mountains region with hiking. The search results in a customized list of state parks, public reserved land units and historic sites in that region, which contain those attributes.

. Information for visitors with disabilities about access at state parks and historic sites, including an overall rating of these properties.

. ATV, snowmobile, boating and trail improvement grant applications that can be downloaded.

. An “Ask a Ranger” section that answers commonly asked questions.

. Maps and pictures of more than 70 properties are online and will continue to be updated throughout the summer.

The Bureau of Parks and Lands administers 32 state parks, 12 historic sites and more than 480,000 acres of public reserved lands.