Minnesota State Parks Seek Fee Bump to Maintain Services

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The Department of Natural Resources is asking the Minnesota Legislature to raise entrance fees at state parks so it can maintain services at existing levels.

Gov. Mark Dayton's budget proposes to bump the current $5 daily vehicle fee by $1 to $6, and the current 12-month $25 vehicle fee by $5 to $30.

DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr says the money will allow the state parks and trails system to ensure the quality of services that visitors expect.

Parks and Trails chief Erika Rivers calls it a "very modest" increase that will raise about $2.3 million over two years. She says surveys show strong visitor support. And she says the reception from lawmakers has been positive, with little to no opposition.

Minnesota state parks expect about 8 million visitors this year.