Missoula RAC to discuss proposed recreation fees

MISSOULA – The Missoula Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) is scheduled to meet on Sept. 8 at 3 p.m. virtually.

 The objectives of the meeting are to:

• Approve meeting minutes as needed;

• Discuss, recommend and approve new Title II projects and hear project proposal presentations as requested by the RAC;

• Discuss and make recommendations on recreation fee proposals for sites located within Missoula County on the Lolo National Forest.

 At the conclusion of the meeting, the committee will recommend projects for funding under Title II of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000. Recommended projects, which occur on or directly benefit National Forest System lands, receive funds that will make additional investments in meeting forest stewardship objectives, restoring and improving land health and water quality, or improving existing infrastructure.

Additionally, the committee will be reviewing and discussing Lolo National Forest proposed recreation fee changes at eight campgrounds, six group sites, and two lookout rentals located within Missoula County. The committee will consider the comments that were received during the public participation period for the Lolo National Forest Fee Proposal in 2019 and make recommendations on these proposals to the Regional Forester prior to authorization to implement. During the public comment period, several comments were received in opposition of new fees being implemented at four day-use sites; however, those proposals have been withdrawn from consideration.

This meeting is open to public. Information on how to join the virtual meeting, or how to submit a written comment, is available by contacting Missoula RAC coordinator Kate Jerman at Katelyn.jerman@usda.gov or by calling 406-552-7944. Written comments must be submitted to the RAC coordinator by Sept. 3, 2020. Members of the public wishing to speak or read their comment will be given a limited time frame to do so. A meeting agenda will be available one week before the meeting at this website or available upon request.