Maurice K. Goddard, appointed Pennsylvania Secretary of Forests and Waters in 1955, worked tirelessly to expand recreational opportunities for everyone while also promoting clean water, healthy forests, and open space. In 1962, he established the Bureau of State Parks to specialize in park management and pursued a vision of having a state park within 25 miles of every Pennsylvanian. His far-reaching plans included dedicated funding streams such as the Oil and Gas Lease Fund, which helped bring recreation, conservation, and improved water quality to Pennsylvanians. Through the work of Goddard and his staff, outdoor activities were brought closer to residents across the state. Today, more than 25 million visitors each year use Pennsylvania's state park system, which in 2009 was recognized by an independent organization as the best state park system in the nation with a two-year Gold Medal Award.