Managers on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest are seeking public input and ideas on actions the Forest Service can take to improve the visitor experience in the Lewis River Recreation Area. Feedback is being accepted through Oct. 27.
The recreation area, which includes the Lewis River Falls, is primarily located on the Mount Adams Ranger District.
Visitation to the Lewis River Recreation Area has grown significantly in recent years, leading to an increase in traffic, unconstrained parking, trash and human waste, and natural resource damage.
While these issues affect the entire corridor, they have become most pronounced at the Lower Falls Day Use area, according to a news release from late last week. Due to these adverse impacts a ticket system was implemented in 2020 to manage parking within the corridor.
“This was a necessary step at the time to manage the level of use; however, the Forest Service recognizes that additional actions are needed to address issues throughout the corridor,” the release stated.
Public input will help with the development of the Lewis River Recreation Area Management Plan.
To provide input, visit https://tinyurl.com/muj5znba.