U.S. Forest Service backs off taking away discount for people with disabilities, senior citizens

From the Senior Journal:

Senior citizens and the disabled will continue to receive a discount at Forest Service campgrounds run by private concessions after USDA Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell decided not to implement proposed changes to fees charged to holders of passes.

The Forest Service had proposed changes to discounts provided to holders of Golden Age and Golden Access Passports and Senior and Access Passes.

Under the proposal, discounts at concession-operated campgrounds would have changed from the current 50 percent to 10 percent. Officials of the Forest Service argued originally argued that the reduction in the discount was necessary to keep concessionaires from raising fees for other campground users as the number of senior citizens continues to increase. They said it would ensure access stays fair for all Americans.

After considering many public comments, the Chief determined the proposed changes are not the best way to address growing challenges regarding services provided by private businesses at Forest Service recreation facilities.

“Each year more than 175 million people enjoy recreational opportunities on National Forests and Grasslands, and that includes more than 15 million visits to our campgrounds,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell.

“Particularly in these difficult economic times, it is very important to maintain affordable access to our National Forests and Grasslands, giving people easy ways to recreate and find respite in the great outdoors.”

The Chief’s decision leaves in place a 50 percent discount at campgrounds run by private concessions for holders of Golden Age and Golden Access Passports and Interagency Senior and Access Passes. Concessioners are not required to accept passes at day use sites.

Seniors age 62 and older pay a one-time $10 fee for the Senior Pass. Lifetime Access Passes for people with disabilities are free.

The Forest Service conducted a 60-day public notice and comment period on the proposed changes. More than 4,000 comments were received.