Fee increases proposed for Ashley National Forest

VERNAL — The Vernal Ranger District is proposing fee increases at 16 campgrounds and two rental cabins within the Ashley National Forest to maintain and upgrade the facilities.

The proposed fee increases range from $2 to $25, depending on campground sites, and would take effect next year. Forest Service officials plan to present the proposal to the Utah Resource Advisory Committee in January.

Under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act passed by Congress in 2004, the Forest Service maintains the right to collect funds to ensure sites are maintained and well operated.

Ashley National Forest officials are looking for feedback on the proposed fee increases from frequent visitors. All feedback must be submitted by Sept. 15.

Send e-mail to adezort@fs.fed.us and include "Fee Proposal" in the subject line; mail comments to Anita DeZort, Ashley National Forest, 355 N. Vernal Ave., Vernal, UT, 84078; or call 435-781-5192.

More information on the proposal is available at www.fs.fed.us/r4/ashley.

— Daniel Ng