News Release Archive

Reclamation Announces the Implementation of Phase II Fee Changes at New Melones Lake

Media Contact: Michelle Light, 916-978-5100, mlight@mp.usbr.gov

For Release: September 02, 2008

The Bureau of Reclamation will implement Phase II fee changes at New Melones Lake on Wednesday, October 1, 2008, as previously announced.  Phase II completes implementation of the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (REA), Public Law 108-774, Title VIII, which authorizes Reclamation to issue special recreation use permits and to participate in both a fee collection/retention program and the nationwide Federal Interagency Pass Program.  REA provides Reclamation the opportunity to continue quality recreation services at New Melones Lake as Federal budgets are reduced.

Effective October 1, 2008, fees will be $6 for day use, $8 per day for boat launching (includes the $6 day-use fee), $40 for the Annual Day Use Pass, and $60 for the Annual Boat Launch Pass.  The daily campers overflow vehicle/visitor fee will be $6 (includes the $6 day-use fee).  Passes purchased under the Federal Interagency Pass Program provide discount fees for many services.  Members of the public may earn free Interagency and/or local passes by volunteering at Federal parks. 

Visitors are also invited to enjoy New Melones recreation opportunities on several "free" days each year.  On National Public Lands Day, Veterans Day, and a Customer Appreciation Day (to be announced in April 2009), there will be no charge for day use.  For more details on recreation fees, the park pass program, or related information, please contact the New Melones Lake Visitor Center at 209-536-9543.

For detailed information on the REA program or to review the summary of comments received during the public comment period with Reclamations responses, please visit the New Melones website at http://www.usbr.gov/mp/ccao/field_offices/new_melones/REA/index.html.  These documents are also available for review in the New Melones Administration Office, 6850 Studhorse Flat Road, Sonora, CA  95370, open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., phone
209-536-9094.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

Recreation Enhancement Act Program (REA)