DNR seeking public comment for proposed rules for State Parks and recreation areas

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is currently seeking public comment for the proposed rule making to implement Senate File 2389, passed by the Iowa Legislature in April 2018, allowing the DNR to establish rental fees at state parks and recreation areas. This change eliminates the need for the DNR to go through rule making under the authority of the Natural Resource Commission to establish, change and manage fees for camping, the use of rental facilities and other special privileges in state parks and recreation areas.

As part of the legislation, the DNR is required to establish and adopt rules for the purpose of setting forth the methodology to be used in establishing fees. To obtain a copy of the rule making documents, visit the Iowa DNR’s website at www.iowadnr.gov/parks.

The DNR is conducting six public hearings where the public may present their views verbally or in writing. All of the public hearings will be held February 7 from noon to 2 p.m. at the following locations:

• Wallace State Office Building, Fourth Floor Conference Room, 502 East Ninth Street, Des Moines
• Clear Lake State Park Office, 2730 South Lakeview Drive, Clear Lake
• Cold Springs District Office, Conference Room, 57744 Lewis Road, Lewis
• Lake Darling State Park, Lake Darling Lodge, 111 Lake Darling, Brighton
• Delaware County Conservation Board, Conference Room, 2379 Jefferson Road, Manchester
Lewis & Clark State Park, Lewis & Clark Visitor Center Banquet Room, 21914 Park Loop, Onawa.

The public may also submit written comments no later than 4:30 p.m. February 7. Comments should be directed to: Sherry Arntzen, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Wallace State Office Building, 502 East Ninth Street, Fourth Floor, Des Moines, IA 50319-0034.