New York Codes, Rules and Regulations
Title 9 - EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT
Subtitle I - Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
Chapter I - Parks
Subchapter A - Statewide Rules
Part 370 - Statement Of Policy
Section 370.1 - Statement of policy

(a) The State of New York is abundant in natural, scenic and recreational resources. The magnificent State park, recreational and historic site system, administered by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation encourages and facilitates the use and enjoyment of such resources by the public and thereby promotes and enhances the well-being of each individual.

(b) State parks, however, contain waterfalls, waterways, chasms, slopes and other natural features which, by their nature, may constitute hazards and present dangers to persons approaching them.

(c) In addition to the dangers presented by natural hazards, the use of State parks and historic sites by the public for varied and divergent purposes may also, if not controlled, endanger the safety of members thereof and tend to deny certain individuals equality of opportunity in the use and enjoyment of these resources.

(d) Therefore, to enhance and promote the safety, well-being and enjoyment of each individual in the use of the State park, recreational and historic site system, and to assure to each individual equality of opportunity in the use and enjoyment of such system, the rules and regulations set forth in this Chapter are hereby established to govern the conduct of the public with respect thereto.