The Ouachita National Forest is proposing to establish several recreation fee sites. Proposed recreation fees collected at the proposed recreation fee sites would be used for op...
The Ouachita National Forest is proposing to establish several recreation fee sites. Proposed recreation fees collected at the proposed recreation fee sites would be used for operation, maintenance, and improvement of the sites. An analysis of nearby recreation fee sites with similar amenities shows that the proposed recreation fees are reasonable and typical of similar recreation fee sites in the area.
DATES:
If approved, the proposed recreation fees would be established no earlier than six months following the publication of this notice in the
Federal Register
.
ADDRESSES:
Ouachita National Forest, Attention: Recreation Program Manager, P.O. Box 1270, Hot Springs, AR 71902.
The Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (16 U.S.C. 6803(b)) requires the Forest Service to publish in the
Federal Register
a six-month advance notice before establishment of proposed recreation fee sites. In accordance with Forest Service Handbook 2309.13, Chapter 30, the Forest Service will publish the proposed recreation fee sites proposed recreation fees in local newspapers and other local publications for public comment. At least 80 percent of the proposed recreation fees would be spent where they are collected to enhance the visitor experience at the proposed recreation fee sites.
A proposed expanded amenity recreation fee of $50 per day would be charged for group picnic sites at Cedar Lake Day Use, Charlton Day Use, and Shady Lake.
Fee revenue would be used to enhance recreation opportunities, improve customer service, and address maintenance needs.
Once public involvement is complete, the proposed recreation fee sites and proposal recreation fees will be presented to the appropriate Recreation Resource Advisory Committee for review and recommendation prior to a final decision and implementation. Reservations for campgrounds and cabins could be made online at
www.recreation.gov
or by calling (877) 444-6777. Reservations would cost $8.00 per reservation. The $8.00 reservation fee is a transaction fee charged by the
recreation.gov
reservation platform and is not a Forest Service recreation fee under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. This transaction fee is retained by the service provider to support the cost of the reservation system.
16 U.S.C. 6803(b)
www.recreation.gov