People can comment on proposed recreation-site fee increases in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest when their resource advisory committee meets on Wednesday (Oct. 27).
The forest is proposing new or higher fees at 85 out of the more than 500 developed recreation sites in the entire Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
In the Methow Valley Ranger District, new fees or fee increases have been proposed at 32 sites, both campgrounds and trailheads. Many of the campground increases would go from $8 to $10, with a proposed $5 fee for an extra vehicle.
Some campground increases are higher. For example, Early Winters, Falls Creek and War Creek would go from $8 to $15. Blackpine Lake, Chewuch and Klipchuck would go from $12 to $20. Group sites at the Mystery and Nice campgrounds would go from $8 to $40.
In addition, some sites that are now free would require a charge. The picnic area at Blackpine Lake would be $5. The Goat Peak, Crater Creek and Foggy Dew trailheads would be $5.
The annual Northwest Forest Pass covers trailhead fees and would also be good for the picnic area at Blackpine Lake.
“This is a long over-due adjustment to the operating strategy for the sites included in the proposals and will help to keep our sites financially sustainable into the future,” Forest Recreation Program Manager Suzanne Cable said. Fees are consistent with those at sites with similar amenities, she said.
The 15-member advisory committee represents a variety of citizen interests. The committee is also reviewing proposed projects in Yakima County.
Time has been reserved at the meeting for public comment. To register for a time to testify or for information on attending the virtual meeting, contact Public Affairs Specialist Robin DeMario at (509) 664-9292 or robin.demario@usda.gov by Monday, Oct. 24. People can also submit written comments.
The meeting is Wednesday (Oct. 27) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For a complete list of proposed changes, go to https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd908213.pdf.
