During this COVID-19 pandemic, some of us are, for the first time, enjoying the results of a foresighted government official.

Maurice K. Goddard, who was appointed secretary of the Bureau of Forests and Waters in 1955, set out to have a state park within 25 miles of every resident.

By the time he retired in 1979 from the Department of Environmental Resources, 45 state parks and an additional 130,000 acres of state park land were part of his legacy.

That legacy, watched over now by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, is providing an opportunity for exercise and wholesome outdoor activities for those feeling the effects of social distancing and self-isolation during this pandemic.

In May, the statewide park system attendance reports show 5.8 million visitors compared to 4.2 million last year — a 36 percent increase. Eighteen parks experienced more than a 100 percent increase.

As with anything worth having, we must take care of it.

To ensure the state parks like Moraine and McConnells Mill continue to be wonderful spots for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, sailboating and fishing, those who use them must follow the DCNR’s Leave No Trace plan.

If you carry in food or equipment, carry it out. Don’t leave behind your used mask, tangled fishing line, or empty beverage bottles and cans.

Be sure to stay on the trail to protect foliage and wildlife for the next person and the next generation.

Respect your environment and those sharing these wonderful treasures — a gift from Goddard, a man determined to share these natural resources with every Pennsylvanian.

— DJS