State parks propose changes to fees

New Mexico State Parks is proposing significant changes to its fees this summer, including the elimination of day-use fees and annual passes for state residents but significantly raising fees for boats.

The proposal would affect all 35 state parks, including Ute Lake in Logan and Conchas Lake northwest of Tucumcari.

Mesalands Community College’s wind energy center will host an informational meeting about the proposed changes from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on March 6.

“NM State Parks are decades behind surrounding states when it comes to our fees structure,” the parks division stated in a news release. “Adjustments are necessary to better support park options and maintain our beautiful landscapes with diverse natural and cultural resources for future generations.”

The parks division completed an evaluation of its fees. It stated it wants to improve the agency’s financial position and enhance its mission to keep park access affordable.

Key recommendations from the fees study include:

— Elimination of $5 day-use fees for New Mexico residents;

— Implementation of a $10 day-use fee for non-residents;

— Eliminating annual passes;

— Raising primitive camping fees from $8 and developed camping fees from $10 to $20 for each vehicle;

— Nearly tripling boat registration fees and implementing a $5 launch fee;

— Increase utility fees from $4 to $10 per day;

— Implement a dump station fee of $10 per use;

— Raising entrance fees to Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park and Smokey Bear Historical Park.

The state estimates the fee changes would raise an additional $5.4 million for the parks system.

The agency said the goal is to implement changes by July 1.

The parks division is soliciting public input on its proposed revisions through March 29 and is holding informational meetings across the state to provide information on the recommendations to the public.