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Forest Service Alaska Region P. O. Box 21628 Juneau, Alaska 99802 Twitter: @AKForestService Web: http://www.fs.usda.gov/r10 For Immediate Release Media Contact: Jeffrey Miller, Alaska Region Recreation Enhancement Fund, 907-586-8804,
jeffmiller@xxxxxxxxx
Opportunity for Input on Public Recreation Cabin Rental Rates in Alaska JUNEAU, Alaska—October 30,
2015, The U.S. Forest Service would like to invite the public to comment on proposed cabin rental rate adjustments for 184 cabins on the Chugach and Tongass national forests. These cabins are some of the most popular recreation destinations for residents and
visitors alike. They offer visitors an opportunity for recreation, relaxation, and a unique backcountry experience.
Regional Forester Beth Pendleton said, “This proposal is significant to our ability to keep our cabins safe and well maintained so that users can truly enjoy them.”
The cabin fee adjustment proposal is one part of the Alaska Region’s strategy to work with our partners and volunteers to continue to provide high quality recreational opportunities. Current rental rates were
established in the 1990s and range from $25.00 to $45.00. Proposed adjustments range from $30.00 to $100.00, with most cabins falling in the mid-range. Many cabins are booked 200 or more days a year, while others receive less use.
The adjustments are based on demand, annual operations and maintenance costs. Most cabins will have varying peak and non-peak season rates. Maintaining heavily-used and remote cabins is expensive and costs continue to rise.
Fee revenue is used for renovations, repairs, materials, maintenance and cleaning of outhouses, firewood and fuels, salary for staff working on the cabins, and travel expenses related to boats, helicopters and
fixed-wing aircraft that are used to take employees to remote sites. Revenue generated through cabin rental fees helps meet the challenges of sustaining these facilities. The proposed additional revenue aligns the rental fee with both the amenities offered
and the costs associated with providing this service to the public. Over the past five years, the Forest Service has reviewed cabin rental fees on other public lands, including Alaska state parks, national parks, and national wildlife refuges, to help identify a market-based fee structure. As a result,
the proposed cabin rental fees reflect rates that are better aligned with other agencies in the state. We welcome public input on individual cabins to inform us of needed modifications in the proposed rates. Should you feel that higher or lower fees are warranted, please indicate why in your remarks. More information, including a list of the proposed fees per cabin, is available at:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r10/cabinproposals. You may offer your input electronically through
November 30, 2015 at: For individuals who do not have internet access, information can be requested and input can be provided to Jeff Miller at (907) 586-8804. Cabin reservations may be made online at:
http://www/recreation.gov. ### USDA is an equal opportunity employer, provider and lender. |
