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Upper Kern River Proposal
What about other permit holders? Such as any activities associated with special use permits? Or people with rafting/kayaking permits?
Commercial outfitter/guides pay fees through their special use permits and would not be required to pay the HIRA fee while they are operating in that capacity. Private boaters do not pay a fee for rafting and kayaking permits, so they would pay a fee for recreating within the HIRA.
Would making the Upper Kern River a HIRA lead to more enforcement, including enforcement of the 25' camping setback?
Previous surveys at other recreation fee areas identify the public wants a portion of recreation fees to go toward security and safety. The Sequoia National Forest emphasizes visitor safety and security and plans to place a high priority on enforcement. The 25' setback is an important factor in protecting water quality and enforcement of this resource protection measure will be a priority for the expenditure of the funds generated from fees.
Are there any proposals to limit dispersed camping?
The forest will continue to evaluate the impacts of dispersed camping within the Upper Kern River watershed and make decisions in conjunction with other forest planning efforts. The public will be involved in these planning decisions.
Are there any proposals to "improve" dispersed camping areas (i.e.: more portable toilets/dumpsters).
Yes. One of the benefits of collecting a modest visitor use fee in the proposed Upper Kern River HIRA is to improve facilities and visitor services; additional toilets and trash receptacles are included in these plans.
Could more developed campgrounds be added at some point in the future?
At this time there are no plans for adding more developed camping facilities along the Upper Kern River. The forest continues to evaluate visitor use and if existing facilities are found to be inadequate, the forest will look at the possibility of adding developed camping opportunities.
Would any activities or areas (outside developed campgrounds) be exempt - in addition to question regarding special use permits and rafting permits?
The "per vehicle" charge would apply to persons using the high impact recreation area for recreation. Visitors will not need a pass when traveling through the Forest and stopping for activities incidental to through travel (stretch break, photo-opportunity, use a restroom), when parked at a residence or at an organization camp, or within areas covered by special use permits. A pass is not required for people stopping for information at Ranger stations, visitor centers and other Forest Service offices.
Volunteers working on projects and educational institutions bringing students to the Forest for educational purposes are also exempt. During 2008 there are four (4) free days authorized - National Trails Day (June 3rd), Veterans Day (November 11), and National Public Lands Day (September 27th and 28th ).
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