Sustainable Recreation: Now and in the Future

To meet our goal of a sustainable, high-quality recreation program within our budget realities, we need to explore creative options and develop community-based solutions. Not changing our approach will lead to further decline of recreation sites and changes in service levels.

An initial analysis of 210 highly developed recreation sites (campgrounds, restrooms, visitor facility locations, trailheads, and cabin/lookout rentals) evaluated facility conditions including safety, cost/benefit analysis, facility life cycle costs, and use by the public.

The analysis revealed over $1.7 million dollars would be needed annually to adequately operate and maintain these sites at their current level, which results in a funding shortfall of over $700,000. In addition, deferred maintenance on these sites is over $10 million, far above Forest Service funding capacity.

After gathering information and public input, we have identified potential ways sites could be managed. We are seeking feedback on the proposed program of work for our developed recreation sites. Over the next 6 years, we plan to implement recommended changes. Any changes that involve site-specific, ground-disturbing, or recreation fee change proposals will have additional opportunities for public review and comment.

With your help, we identified sites that might need partner groups to take leadership roles in operations. We are seeking organized groups to help us work together and address the challenges at these sites. Read our proposed developed recreation program of work.

In future years, we plan to look at the sustainability of our existing trail system, dispersed recreation, and other related recreation opportunities.