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Helena-Lewis and Clark Forest Seeks Input On Fee Increases

Looking towards Virginia Peak on the Lewis and Clark National Forest
(PD)
Looking towards Virginia Peak on the Lewis and Clark National Forest

The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is proposing to add or increase fees at some of its recreation sites by $2 to $45.

Forest Spokeswoman Kathy Bushnell says officials are looking for public input on that. 

“Not all of our developed recreation sites for this proposal. There are about 25 campgrounds, 19 cabins – rental cabins – and then two group sites on that list," Bushnell says.

Helena Lewis and Clark Forest officials point out it’s been 10, and in some cases, close to 20 years since the forest has increased its recreation fees.

The forest has invested in new infrastructure at many developed rec sites. Bushnell says the proposed fee changes would help it continue to provide high levels of services to visitors.

"At a higher level, our regional office looks at what is a comparable fee based on other sites that are across the state.”

Bushnell notes that up to 95 percent of the fees collected at certain developed recreation sites is reinvested on the forest.

The full list of proposed new or increased fees can be found on the Helena Lewis and Clark National Forest website.

All public comments need to be submitted by February 9.

Copyright 2020 Montana Public Radio. To see more, visit Montana Public Radio.

Edward O'Brien is Montana Public Radio's Associate News Director.