The legislature declares that it is the continuing policy of the state of Washington to set aside and manage certain lands within the state for public park purposes. To comply with public park purposes, these lands shall be acquired and managed to:

(1) Maintain and enhance ecological, aesthetic, and recreational purposes;

(2) Preserve and maintain mature and old-growth forests containing trees of over ninety years and other unusual ecosystems as natural forests or natural areas, which may also be used for interpretive purposes;

(3) Protect cultural and historical resources, locations, and artifacts, which may also be used for interpretive purposes;

(4) Provide a variety of recreational opportunities to the public, including but not limited to use of developed recreation areas, trails, and natural areas;

(5) Preserve and maintain habitat which will protect and promote endangered, threatened, and sensitive plants, endangered, threatened, and sensitive animal species, and habitat beneficial for the feeding, nesting, and reproduction of all pollinators, including honey bees; and

(6) Encourage public participation in the formulation and implementation of park policies and programs.

Findings—Intent—2019 c 353: See note following RCW 43.23.300.