Although our congressionally authorized budget helps cover the costs of preserving parks like Wind Cave National Park, it does not cover all the operating costs associating with millions and millions of visitors who drive park roads, flush park toilets, and use park services annually. As expenses to maintain and staff the parks rise each year, government funding is unable to keep up.
The Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA) allows the National Park Service to collect and retain revenue and requires that fee revenue be used to enhance the visitor experience. At least 80 percent of the money stays in the park where it is collected, and the other 20 percent is used to benefit parks around the nation that do not collect fees.
Check out some of the projects below to see how your fees support Wind Cave National Park:
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Maintain and rehabilitate park roads and hiking trails
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Maintain and repair campgrounds, buildings, and picnic areas
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Maintain and repair paved roads and parking areas
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Improve park accessibility for people with disabilities
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Provide unique interpretive programs
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Support and maintain exhibits
