Forest users face array of passes

Kris Martinson points out areas requiring recreation passes. photo by Conrad Weiler

Folks interested in local hiking, picnicking and boating using Forest Service recreational facilities this summer will be faced with an array of different options for recreation passes.

"This is part of a national strategy offering consistency," said Martinson. "There are some changes in this new phase for recreation access and the public will have to do some shopping for what pass or passes work best for them."

The good news is that the number of sites requiring these pass privileges has been reduced from 18 to 14 in the Sisters Ranger District, according to Kris Martinson, community relations representative for the Forest Service.

Locally, the four boat launch ramps at Suttle Lake will require a pass. Cinder Beach, located near Highway 20, will remain free for small boat launching, picnicking and swimming from a previous agreement at Suttle Lake.

Nearby, popular Scout Lake picnic area will require a pass.

The choice of passes include the Annual Northwest Forest Pass ($30), a single day pass ($5), the Federal Golden Eagle Passport ($65), a Washington & Oregon Recreation Pass ($85), additional federal or state annual passes (Oregon Pacific Coast passport), or other federal agency passes (Golden Age Passport).

The nine local trailheads for hikers that require passes are Black Butte, Booth Lake, Cabot Lake, Head of Jack Creek, Jack Lake, Lava Camp, Little Three Creek Lake, Pole Creek and the popular Tam McArthur Rim hike.

"There will be improvements at these fee sites," said Martinson. "This includes updating restroom facilities and trail maintenance. Also, there will be new informational signs posted in fee areas by the beginning of the summer recreation season and we'll be monitoring how well the new plan works."

Trail clearance will occur first on fee site hiking trails, according to Martinson. Forest Service representatives will be on ground to monitor program as part of the field ranger program.

"Each year there is better and better compliance with the pass program," said Martinson.

Passes are available at Forest Service offices, G.I. Joe's, REI outfitters, or on-line at www.naturenw.org.