Congress members press Forest Service on proposed entrance fees to El Yunque.

Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Rivera

By THE STAR STAFF

Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Rivera, along with 23 other members of Congress, has addressed a formal letter to the U.S. Forest Service centering on the proposed implementation of entrance fees at El Yunque National Forest, which has always been free.

He said the matter is of significant concern to Puerto Rico’s residents and leadership.

The letter calls for careful consideration of any changes to access, including proposed fee structures. It underscores the potential effects of such changes on how local communities interact with and benefit from El Yunque, Puerto Rico’s national resource. The concerns raised stem from ongoing dialogue with local officials, including the mayor of Río Grande, who has expressed worries regarding affordability, access, and the broader impacts on nearby communities.

Hernández Rivera said the U.S. Forest Service is proposing a fee structure consisting of: a $4 per person charge; a $20 individual annual pass; and a $30 family annual pass.

The letter requests detailed responses to several key questions, reflecting the concerns of Puerto Rican residents and officials:

If the public comment period produces substantial opposition or significant negative feedback, how will the agency incorporate this information into its decision-making process?

Has the agency conducted, commissioned or reviewed studies regarding the possible effects of the proposed fee on visitors, including local residents? If so, what were the findings?

How did the agency account for Puerto Rico’s socioeconomic conditions and local usage patterns when designing the proposed fee structure?

What other funding options or fee-free alternatives has the agency considered to address the needs highlighted in support of the proposal, and how did those considerations influence the decision to move forward with a recreation fee?

Has the agency taken steps to coordinate with the commonwealth government for support with ongoing maintenance costs? If so, what proposals have been submitted to help close the funding gap?

The document requests that the U.S. Forest Service submit responses to the questions by May 14