ELKO, Nev. – Nevada State Parks expressed appreciation today to Barrick Gold of North America for a donation of $6,500.

“This generous donation will be a tremendous benefit to State Parks especially in light of the state’s severe budget situation.” said Dave Morrow, administrator of Nevada State Parks.

Jim Wilkinson, park supervisor for South Fork State Recreation Area, applied for the donation in order to assist with the 75^th anniversary of the creation of the state’s first parks, Beaver Dam, Cathedral Gorge, Kershaw Ryan and Valley of Fire State Park.

“Barrick Gold of North America is proud to partner with the Nevada Division of State Parks in celebrating its 75^th Anniversary,” said Katie Neddenriep, community relations special with Barrick Gold North America. “Environmental conservation is a top priority for our industry and is essential to sustaining the lifestyle that attracts so many people to our great state.”

The funds will be used to promote and hold 75^th-anniversary events across the state and to increase visitation and appreciation for Nevada’s 24 state parks, historic sites and recreation areas.

“The state’s budget situation has affected our ability to carry out any type of promotion and funding for what we believe is an important milestone,” Wilkinson said. “We are grateful to Barrick for its support of Nevada’s state park system, especially Lou Schack and Katie Neddenriep who were instrumental in helping with the donation.”

Past donations by Barrick Gold to Nevada State Parks have included a tractor and patrol boat for South Fork.