State considering raising park fees

Montana State Parks is seeking public comment on its 2014 Biennial Fee Rule for the Montana State Park system.

The proposed user fees include modest increases for camping, camp site electrical service, cabin, yurt and tepee rental, nonresident entry, nonresident annual entrance passes and Lewis and Clark Caverns tours. Specific highlights include:

The state says user fees are the second largest source of revenue for Montana State Parks and are critical to sustaining a quality state park system.

Montana State Parks does not receive revenue generated through hunting or fishing licenses. The last state parks user fee increase for residents occurred in 2003 and for nonresidents in 2010.

To review the proposed  rules, visit online at http://stateparks.mt.gov and click on “Public Notices/Submit Comments.” Deadline to comment is Sept. 26.

The public can also e-mail comments to StateParksFeeRule@mt.gov or send them by mail to Montana State Parks, 2014 Biennial Fee Rule, P.O. Box 200701, Helena MT 59620-0701.