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 Several weeks ago, America's land management agencies circulated a press
release which has been regurgitated numerous times by various media outlets.
While the text of the printed articles has remained constant, headlines given to
this propaganda piece have gyrated around a common theme.
What, may I ask, has become of our "America the Beautiful" and, for that
matter, of our National Parks? What has become of our government, that they
should speak to us in this way?
Today's rendition of this regurgitation evoked, in me, a visceral response.
The article appears below.
Scott
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January 11, 2008
National parks give meaning to 'America the beautiful'
Pass gives unlimited access for one year; costs just $80
Visiting America's national parks and other federal recreation sites
has just gotten more convenient, due to an annual pass that can be
purchased in advance of a trip via the Internet or by calling a
tollfree telephone number.
The America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands
Annual Pass is a yearly entry pass to nearly 2,000 federal recreation
sites, including national forests, wildlife refuges, national parks and
recreation areas.
The pass can be purchased as a birthday or holiday gift and is great for those who enjoy visiting the nation's public lands.
Purchasing a pass before taking off on vacation is especially
advantageous at many U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Managements
sites, which require guests to display a valid entry pass in designated
areas. In some cases, the closest place to purchase the pass and
accompanying hang-tag may be miles from the area.
Having a pass ahead of time enables the visitor to relax, take in the views and maximize the experience in the great outdoors.
The pass admits pass holders and passengers in a noncommercial vehicle
at sites that charge a vehicle entrance or standard amenity fee. At
areas that charge a per-person fee, it allows the pass holder and up to
three more adults to enter the site together. Children under 16 are
admitted free of charge.
Funds generated by pass sales are used to improve visitor facilities
and services, such as improving trails and campgrounds, replacing aging
water and sewer systems, providing new exhibits and interpretive signs,
and providing accessibility to visitors with disabilities.
Funds allocated by Congress to federal lands only cover part of the
work that needs to be done to preserve the nation's inheritance.
The annual pass can be purchased for $80 online at www.store.usgs.gov/pass.
For additional information, e-mail
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
or call (888) 2758747 (ASKUSGS), ext 1.
Guests may also purchase a pass in person at participating federal
recreation sites and offices at National Park Service, Forest Service,
Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of
Reclamation sites.
U.S. citizens who are 62 or older or U.S. citizens who receive
disability benefits may be eligible for the $10 senior lifetime pass or
the no charge Access lifetime pass.
These passes are only available by visiting recreation sites in person.
For more information about these passes, visit www.recreation.gov.
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- Land management 
