Hinrichsen Makes Case for County Park System

Larry Hinrichsen spoke to the Coudersport Rotary Club earlier this month about the County-Wide Park System concept explaining to the club that such a system, if incorporated within Potter County, would capitalize on the County’s resources while potentially decreasing the tax burden on County residents.

Larry explained that several benefits exist regarding a county-wide park system including revenues generated by the county which does not benefit financially from the state park system in the area.  According to Larry, this concept has been employed in several areas including Wisconsin, to which he has traveled and had interviewed several of the implementers of such a system.  Hinrichsen added that benefits other than decreased taxes can also be provided to county residents such as free access to recreational activities such as hunting, equestrian resources and pool use.

Larry explained that this concept inspired him to start the Genesee Environmental Center, which now offers about 4 display areas including one on butterflies.  The Center has recently serviced about 2500 people who have visited the center for Saturday breakfasts and tours.  He intends on adding a wood fire pizza oven in the near future.

Hinrichsen also updated the group on the enhancements being made to the Lumber Museum including the re-designing of the museum which will allow the museum to expand the number of displays available.  Larry also explained that one of the long term goals for the museum is the construction of a onsite rail system that would take visitors through the onsite tannery village.