Why are Forest Passes needed?
Only a very small percentage of federal tax dollars now go toward maintenance of campgrounds, trails, and other federal recreation facilities. Appropriated dollars cover only a part of the total need. Maintenance of facilities depends on volunteers, partnerships, concessionaires, and others who help to make up the funding shortfall. As recreation activity continues to increase, the impact from visitors requires additional work to maintain recreation facilities and natural resources. Whether on foot, horseback, motorized vehicles, water rafting, or climbing – all of these activities creat some impact or damage to the facilities or to the land. Those who recreate in national forests carry a special responsibility to assist in the upkeep.
