There is now bipartisan opposition to a proposal that would increase entrance fees at Crater Lake National Park and Lava Beds National Monument.
Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-Ore., last week sent a letter to Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne, saying he opposes the plan to double the Crater Lake fee for motor vehicles from $10 to $20 and fees at the Lava Beds from $10 to $15.
Now U.S. Rep. Greg Walden, R-Ore., has joined DeFazio in opposition.
"I'm very concerned about the proposed doubling of the fees at Crater Lake," said Walden, whose Eastern Oregon congressional district includes Klamath County and the park.
"I think Peter's right. I just think doubling the fees is going way too far."
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Crater Lake Superintendent Chuck Lundy has said the proposed increase would provide more money for projects and help improve visitor facilities and services throughout the park.
Money from entry fees has paid for new informational exhibits and signs, new and upgraded restrooms, new boat docks and improved trails in the park.
A 90-day comment period began Jan. 1 and continues through March 31.
If approved, the increases would begin in January 2008.
Walden said he will draft a letter opposing the fee increases, and plans to urge the National Park Service to read the comments from local citizens and take them into account.
"I understand you have to pay for improvements and for service, but I get very concerned about pricing people off of and out of our public lands," Walden said.
DeFazio said he fears raising fees for park visitors will only drive visitors away.
Instead, the Interior Department should raise the money it needs to improve the park system by collecting the royalties that oil companies owe the United States.
