2007 day-use park passes now available

Day-use passes for recreation areas in the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas are now available for purchase.

The pass entitles visitors to unlimited day use in participating fee areas forest wide from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, and includes such things as access to boat launches, picnic areas, swim beaches and trailheads.

A cooperative agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Kisatchie National Forest in Louisiana allows visitors to also use the pass at selected boat launches at Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Town Bluff Reservoir and National Forest recreation sites in Louisiana.

In addition, the pass is also honored at Haley's Ferry, East Hamilton Boat Ramp, Ragtown, Lakeview, and Indian Mounds operated by Sabine River Authority.

Annual passes are $30 for one and $45 for two. Holders of Interagency Senior or Access Passes or Golden Age or Access passports pay $15 for one and $22.50 for two.

"For boaters who make regular trips to the lake, this is one of the best bargains around," said Forest Supervisor Fred Salinas. "And the fees stay in the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas to help maintain and improve the recreation areas so many enjoy."

The pass does not cover fees for overnight use, fees to reserve a picnic pavilion, fees in other national forests or areas run by private concessionaires.

Passes may be purchased at Ranger District Offices in Zavalla, Hemphill, Ratcliff, New Waverly and Decatur, or at the Forest Supervisor's Office in Lufkin. For more information, call 936-639- 8501.