Army Corps of Engineers waives user fees at lakes in Va., N.C.

Posted July 22, 2009
By Norfolk District Public Affairs

7/22/2009 - Daily fees for swimmers and boaters at John H. Kerr and Philpott lakes in Virginia and at the W. Kerr Scott Lake in North Carolina are waived Aug. 1-9, joining more than 2,400 Corps-operated recreation sites nationwide.

The waiver applies to day-use fees collected at boat launches and swimming beach facilities. Fees for camping and related services, specialized facilities or special events will not be waived.

"The Corps encourages Americans of all ages to take part in outdoor recreation," said Steve Stockton, the Corps' director of civil works. "Our hope is to encourage increased use during this traditionally low-use period, which will help individuals and local communities economically."

The Corps also has about 2,500 state and local agencies and private partners who independently manage leased recreation facilities on Corps lands. The Corps encourages these entities to waive user fees during this period, but they are not required to comply.

The Corps of Engineers is the nation's largest federal provider of outdoor and water-based recreation, hosting more than 350 million visitors per year at more than 400 lakes and river projects. Many of these sites are located close to major metropolitan areas and provide 4,500 miles of trails, 90,000 campsites, and 33 percent of all U.S. freshwater fishing.

To find the nearest Army Corps of Engineers recreation site, visit www.CorpsLakes.us.