Do we need the Discover Pass??

[bigtex]

They could have just required it on Developed sites, like the USFS does, but they chose to expand their definition of "designated" and basically turn this pass into a state land entry fee.  Everyone needs to write a smart, detailed gripe letter on the ills of the Discover Pass and send it to their state Rep before the 2012 legislative session.  Brian Blake, head of Nat Resources, has already vowed to improve the pass...and he never believed it was intended to be used on undeveloped DNR land, although he was a sponsor.  Griping to each other doesn't really help UNLESS we also gripe to the right people, in lots of ways and in BIG NUMBERS.

I actually blame Blake for these issues. He made the bill, he is the one that passed the bill with the wording "operating" meaning if you drive on DNR/WDFW lands you need it. But then he goes to the press and says he thought it was going to be a parking pass? B.S. I hate it when legislators pass bills and have no clue what it really is about, and Blake was a sponsor!

Also, DNR never did change their wording of "designated". Maybe the reps should have asked DNR for a list of areas that would need the pass then put that into law, and if DNR wants additional areas they need to ask the legislature???

Here is how DNR decides what areas need the pass:

http://www.dnr.wa.gov/Publications/em_fs11_021.pdf

[fireweed]

I agree. One thing I've learned in working with the government is never believe anything they SAY.  As in, trust us, this is what it will or will not do.  I want to see in on paper--and then micro-examine the language.  The law was poorly written with too many fuzzy areas and loop holes.  It needs a serious rework.  To me it looks like the DNR is trying to justify their definition of designated after the fact.  Many places that now require a discover pass have never spent a dime on recreation improvements, and can be locked behind private gates.  I like the idea of the purchaser saying who gets the funds.  Or at least a way to track which land you are buying the pass for.  Then see if DNR is subsidizing state parks or visa versa.

[mainer78]

I have no problem paying for the Pass.  I some other states you pay more.... Plus when I was at Millersylvania this summer enjoying the day at the water, there was ALOT less people there, and the ones who were there were nice anc courteous.  The pass does weed out alot of idiots.  Last summer you could barley find a place to sit, and there were morons everywhere, and fights.  Hopefully this fall there will be alot less idiots out in the woods because of the passes.... Just my .02!!

[AKBowman]

I have no problem paying for the Pass.  I some other states you pay more.... Plus when I was at Millersylvania this summer enjoying the day at the water, there was ALOT less people there, and the ones who were there were nice anc courteous.  The pass does weed out alot of idiots.  Last summer you could barley find a place to sit, and there were morons everywhere, and fights.  Hopefully this fall there will be alot less idiots out in the woods because of the passes.... Just my .02!!

Yes that is the trend in this state, less and less hunters. WDFW makes it harder and harder to figure out when where and how to legally hunt in this state plus they make it more and more cost prohibitive every year. Soon enough you wont have to worry about all of the idiots in the woods b/c we will lose our right to hunt if we dont get new hunters every year. The Discover Pass is bull what the hell do I pay taxes for if i need to buy a pass to pull off the side of a road and mtn bike behind a locked gate on land that my taxes go to maintaining?!

[lilshootergirl]

If you already bought your fishing & hunting Lic. you are good till April 2012. thats what it say at the website for wdfw. after that next year, you'll have to pay there stupid pass. i think its because of all the lazy people who leave trash, someone needs to be paid to pick it up! I saw so much garbage this year it really makes me sad. So everyone tell all your friends to pack their crap out of the wild. then we won't have these extra fees, althou Washington is one of the highest tax state.

[CAMPMEAT]

I bought our little paper today with all the divorces etc. Well, they've written 4 citations in a week for not having that stupid money generating pass.