The El Yunque National Forest is proposing to establish several recreation pass options and a special recreation permit. Proposed recreation fees collected for the proposed recr...
The El Yunque National Forest is proposing to establish several recreation pass options and a special recreation permit. Proposed recreation fees collected for the proposed recreation passes and for the proposed special recreation permit would be used for operation, maintenance, and
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improvement of the sites and the special recreation use covered by the proposed special recreation permit. An analysis of nearby recreation fee sites and special recreation uses with similar amenities shows that the proposed recreation fees are reasonable and typical of similar recreation fee sites and special recreation uses 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:
El Yunque National Forest, Attention: Fee Proposal Coordinator, HC-01, Box 13490, Rio Grande, PR 00745-9625.
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 and proposed special recreation permits. In accordance with Forest Service Handbook 2309.13, Chapter 30, the Forest Service will publish the proposed recreation fee sites, proposed special recreation permit, and 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 and in connection with the special recreation use covered by the proposed special recreation permit.
A proposed standard amenity fee of $10 per person for a 3-day pass would be charged for El Portal Visitor Center. A proposed standard amenity fee of $20 per person for an annual pass and $30 per group for a family annual pass would be charged for El Portal Del Yunque Rainforest Center.
A proposed special recreation permit and proposed special recreation permit fees of $4 per person per day, $10 per person for 3-day pass, $20 per person annual pass or a $30 family annual pass are proposed for the La Mina Recreation Area. The America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass would be honored at the standard amenity recreation fee site but would not cover the La Mina special recreation permit fee.
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, proposed special recreation permit, and proposal recreation fees will be reviewed by a citizen's advisory committee prior to a final decision and implementation.
16 U.S.C. 6803(b)