No free ride this holiday

President’s Day is coming, so be prepared to hand over an Andrew Jackson if you’re heading to Dumont Dunes. The federal government will collect fees Feb. 11-18 at the off-road-vehicle destination near Baker.

The Bureau of Land Management will charge $20 per primary vehicle and for campsites, or you can save $2 through advance purchase.

So many people are using the dunes that more revenue is needed for maintenance, road access, toilets, medical aid and staff, the bureau says. Fees will also be charged during Easter week. Other desert ORV areas are not yet affected, according to the BLM.

For more information, call (760) 252-6000 or go to www.thepermitstore.com to make a reservation.

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-- Gary Polakovic