According to recent news articles, the USFS and NPS are scratching their heads while publicly saying: we haven't a clue why visitation is down so much.  They are likewise, and at every opportunity,  claiming that today's youths are no longer playing in nature, because they are addicted to videos -- and similar statements.

Frankly I think the agency people are being remarkably disingenuous.

Pasted below is a short article about a town council in Canada that seems to understand why their local kids aren't playing outdoors.  Is this relevant to our National Parks and Forests? You bet it is!

Scott

PS... here is a link to an 11/29 Associated Press article in which I am quoted.
 The headline reads:  "National Forest visitors down, no one knows why"

--- begin quoted ---
December 17, 2008

Fees for skateboard and BMX bike park
Town considers continuing user fees for skateboard and BMX bike park
 
Collingwood council will decide in January whether to drop user fees for its skateboard and BMX parks.

Unlike other municipalities in the local area, the town charges teens and local youth admission fees to the park. That's the main reason why it's under-utilized, policing committee member Wendy Mackenzie told the council Monday.

With the support of Inspector John Trude, the committee is asking the town to drop the fees and open the park up during daylight hours to better accommodate users.

It's also a good way to ensure local youth are getting some exercise, she and other committee members told the council.

Leisure Services Manager Peter Dunbar is to provide a report in January. 

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