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CORPS OF
ENGINEERS, |
1. Question: In a news
release posted on Tuesday, 02/12/2008 Lt. General Robert Van Antwerp accepted a
new recreation strategy in concept and approved the creation of a USACE/partners
task force to develop an implementation plan by May 1, 2008.
What is in the
implementation plan?
What is the status of the implementation plan?
Answer: A news release was distributed by the American Recreation Coalition and it referenced a “new recreation strategy” that was presented to Gen. Van Antwerp. This document was developed by a group of national recreation organizations concerned about the future of the Corps recreation programs.
The document included findings and recommended actions developed by this external group.Gen. Van Antwerp received the document and requested that the group come back to the Corps with a reduced set of recommended actions that could be implemented in a relatively short period of time at minimal costs.
The recreation strategy group has not yet submitted their revised recommendations as of August 15, 2008.The Corps of Engineers has not adopted the findings, goals, and recommended actions.
The Corps agreed to carefully review them and work with the group on narrowing down potential actions for further consideration.
The American Recreation Coalition will continue to coordinate closely with this group.
2. Question: The new strategic plan states, “Armed Forces significantly benefit from Corps recreation places and programs”. How will Armed Forces or Public significantly benefit from Corps recreation programs if the campgrounds are leased out and the price for camping increases 25/50/100%?
Answer: The general public and military personnel can fully enjoy leased facilities as well as those operated by the Corps. It is currently unknown if/how long term campground leasing will alter the availability of public use. Prices for services comparable to those currently provided of leased areas are not expected to significantly increase.
3. Question: How will the public significantly benefit from Corps recreation programs if the campgrounds are leased out and the price for camping increases 25/50/100%?
Answer: See answer 2. The Corps will be required to close recreation areas if funding to operate is inadequate. However, leasing would allow for uninterrupted public usage of the campgrounds. The forecasted long term benefits of leasing could ensure operation and possible facility improvements by the lessee which could be paid from user fees. In all, leasing may be better suited to accommodate public usage requirements if operational funding shortfalls continue.
4. Question: The new
strategic plan states, “Funding for Corps recreation and environmental
stewardship programs is significantly declining…”
What has the Corps done to assess, evaluate, and test new methods
to increase revenues at the campgrounds other than leasing?
Answer: The Corps conducts comparability surveys every couple of years to ensure camping and special facility fees are commensurate with other agencies and private campgrounds in the region. The District has initiated an active volunteer drive. Funding saved through this effort will be used to sustain campground levels of service. In addition, the Arkansas Congressional delegation introduced legislation (H.R. 4304) in the House of Representatives. Recently, Senator Chambliss from Georgia introduced a companion bill (S 3305) in the Senate. If adopted, the law would allow projects to retain a portion of project user fees. The retention of these user fees will only benefit the projects provided budgets are not offset as a result of adoption of the legislation. Otherwise, without fee retention legislation, any revenue increases will continue to be returned to the United States Treasury.
5. Question: What has the Corps done to review the reservation system to reduce “weekender” reservations to create windows for longer reservations during peek summer periods?
Answer: The Vicksburg District is awaiting Headquarters approval to change the number of reservable campsite ratio to better accommodate users.
6. Question: What has the Corps done to use stakeholders/partners in creating “a multiplier affect”, similar to what the LOCFC has done with the LOViT, through the use of grants, donations, volunteers, etc., to enhance and improve the campgrounds? (RE: High priority proposed actions, 1D “Increase and expand the visibility of Corps partner and volunteer efforts.)
Answer: There is currently a large volunteer effort in effect at all lakes. There is also a nationwide clearinghouse for Corps volunteers which takes applications and matches volunteers with specific jobs by regions.
The Corps cooperates and partners with organizations such as Bassmasters, The National Wild Turkey Federation, and Ducks Unlimited to accomplish work that is of interest to each organization.
Group or individual donations are also accepted through the Corps Contributions Program.
Contributions can be utilized to accomplish various tasks or projects including but not limited to the protection, improvement, restoration, rehabilitation or interpretation of natural resources, environmental features, recreation areas, facilities, or cultural resource projects.
7. Question: What options for campground revenues has the Corps considered other than campground leasing?
Answer: On several occasions, the Corps has reviewed options to increase campground revenue at the national level. At present time, the Corps is not authorized by Congress to retain revenue collected through user fees. As a result, the generation of additional revenue would be returned to the United States Treasury and would not directly benefit the recreation program.
8. Question: Has the Corps held a brain storming session specifically to explore stakeholder/partner input on increasing campground revenue?
Answer: See answer 7. With regards to enhancing partnerships, there have been a large number of stakeholder meetings around the country to examine partnerships and improve the operational efficiency of campgrounds.
9. Question: HQ USACE recognizes the need for new methods of funding, what has it done to support the “Army Corps of Engineer Recreation Initiative Act” (ACERIA) (HR 4303) introduced by the Arkansas Congressional legislators?
Answer: As a Federal agency, the Corps cannot lobby Congress. We do have knowledge of resolution (H.R. 4304) which was introduced by the Arkansas Congressional Delegation (Recreational Improvement Act) into the House of Representatives which would return a portion of the fees collected to each Lake.
10. Question: Will the return of campground “user-fees” be given an opportunity to work before the leasing of campgrounds? If not, why not?
Answer: See answer 5 and 9. Yes, if legislation passes with no budget offset. Without legislation, service levels and other operational strategies such as leasing and/or closures will be evaluated according to funding levels.
11. Question: What recommendations have the Corps assessed, evaluated and tested to determine what option would be the best in serving the public?
Answer: The Corps goal of public service has been and will continue to be managed through a balanced approach concept to maximize public recreational opportunities while addressing other project missions and operating within budgetary limits. Several options have been developed based on anticipated funding levels. Options also include the closing and/or leasing of campgrounds based on funding. Other factors which will affect level of service include volunteerism and the ability to retain user fees.
12. Question: What can the stakeholder/partnership do to get the Corps to be able to offer or accept the new military public lands pass? What strategic plan can we develop and action taken to change the current situation through your stakeholder/partnership?
Answer: At the present time, the Corps does not have authorization for military passes. Congress has not passed legislation for this action. Since the Corps cannot lobby Congress, local stakeholders or private individuals would need to work with other groups around the country to garner legislative authorization.
13. Question: The new strategic plan indicates the Corps participation in National “Children in Nature” initiatives. It further states, “Other federal agencies have publicly announced national commitments to support a variety of initiatives related to “children in nature”. What has the Corps done to get funds from the other federal agencies to support “children in nature” at their campgrounds?
Answer: The strategic plan has not been formally adopted by the Corps of Engineers. However, the Corps is an avid proponent in the education and self development of children through interpretive programs involving wildlife, nature, geology, and other natural resource programs. . Coordination has been with other state and federal agencies, and other national organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America. Arkansas Lakes Park Rangers recently attended a “Children and Nature” workshop sponsored by Hot Springs National Park. Other agencies in attendance were State Parks and the U.S. Forest Service. Initiatives were discussed, and future meetings are planned. Efforts will coincide with a “Leave no child inside” initiative.
14. Question: RE: 3F of the new strategic plan under which states, “Work with the Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) to identify complementary programs that meet the needs of both military families and the recreating public…” If the Corps has complementary MWR programs to meet the needs of military families has the Corps asked for MWR funds?
Answer: The Corps and the Department of Defense have different legislative authorities for funding sources. As a result, use of MWR funds is not possible at this time.
15. Question: The LOCFC “Visitor Comment Card” specifically asks for Armed Forces data. Will you use it for justification to get MWR or NAFI funding? Will you let the stakeholder/partnership use it to get MWR or NAFI funding?
Answer: The Corps does not have authorization to use “non appropriated funds” (NAFI). The Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) program specifically applies to members of the Active Army, the Army National Guard/Army National Guard of the United States, and the U.S. Army Reserve. The policy of the program is outlined in AR 215-1 and AR 608-10. Under current policy, non-appropriated funds are not available for use in the operation or maintenance of campgrounds under the jurisdiction of the Corps of Engineers.
16. Question: RE: Item 4 Community Sustainability in the new strategic plan. It states, “New tools which supplement appropriations are needed, from fees to partnership authorities.” 4A states, “The Corps should request and obtain a legal opinion regarding the authority to use Non-appropriated Funding Instrumentalities (NAFI) on lands it manages and, if determined to be appropriate, designate not fewer than four sites for pilot efforts for this program. What is the status of this request?
Answer: The Corps has not adopted the strategic plan. See answer 15.
17. Question: If Non-appropriated Funding Instrumentalities (NAFI) was not approved, why?
Answer: See answers 15 and 16.
18. Question: If Non-appropriated Funding Instrumentalities (NAFI) is not available, will HQ USACE request additional appropriations for “pilot” lake programs during an assessment, evaluation, and testing for FY09 and FY10?
Answer: Not for FY 09 or FY 10 as authorization legislation must precede appropriations.
Our next opportunity to request funding will be for FY11.
19. Question: If the HQ USACE is going to designate four “pilot” lakes, which lakes is MVK going to select?
Answer: The Corps has not accepted the recommendation for a pilot lakes program.
See answer 18. If the Corps decides to implement the proposed “pilot lakes” program, the Vicksburg District will recommended that Lake Ouachita be included as one of the four selected.
The final decision will rest on whether the Corps formally adopts the strategic recreation recommendations established by the national recreation group.
20. Question: 4B states, “The Corps should elevate its request for inclusion in the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA) in its FY09 budget meetings…” What has the Corps done to follow up on the ACERIA introduced by Arkansas legislators?
Answer: The Corps cannot lobby Congress for adoption of legislative actions. However, the Corps follows legislative actions and how they will affect business practices if enacted.
21. Question: Has the HQ, USACE asked for an exception for “pilot” lake study to have user-fees returned to the lake projects?
Answer: No. New legislation to return fees to the projects has been introduced but not currently enacted. See answer 4.
22. Question: 4C states, “Among possible outgrowths of the (local) meeting would be local consideration of cost-sharing with local governments to build, maintain and expand Corps recreation based on innovative approaches by the local governments to fund their share”. What has been done to explore these possibilities?
Answer: Many local county and city governments are suffering severe budget shortfalls due to higher costs of fuel, supplies, and materials. To date, there have been no public agency volunteers to help in operation of Corps facilities.
23. Question: RE: Item 5 regarding Research Needs. What has the Corps done in assessing the role of the Corps lakes in supporting key recreational industries and delivering benefits to the American Public? Does the Corps know if the recreational industry will provide grants for recreational improvements at Corps campgrounds?
Answer: The Corps recognizes its role in support of fishing, hunting, water sports, camping, and other recreational industries surrounding our lakes. Many of these industries and local businesses donate door prizes, time, and labor in programs such as Federal Lands Cleanup Day. In addition, the Corps has received several grants over the years primarily for work involving trails, wildlife management, Pakistani fly, and other items related to natural resources. We have also applied for grants from Boat US Foundation for water safety education.
24. Question: Has the Corps worked with universities and other research institutions to identify the benefits recreation opportunities Corps lakes provide to the individual, communities, the economy and environment?
Answer: Yes. The Corps Recreation Management Support Program at our Engineering Research and Development Center (ERDC) works with universities and other organizations on such studies. There is extensive data on recreation benefits to counties, states, and the national economy derived as a result of Corps Lakes.
25. Question: Has the Corps explored, evaluated, assessed and/or tested all the options available with its stakeholders/partnerships for the Corps to make money at Corps recreation areas? Will Vicksburg District Engineers conduct such a meeting?
Answer: The Vicksburg District has not yet explored, evaluated, or assessed all options, but intends continued coordination with stakeholders to develop potential options. At the present time, revenue generated through recreation fees are returned to the United States Treasury. Increasing fees will not help the program.
We are working through the Corps of Engineers Natural Resources Education Foundation (not officially associated with the Corps) to develop partnerships with other organizations and businesses to help support activities at Corps recreation areas.
These activities would not “make money” but, could provide needed funds to support activities and facilities at the parks.
In addition, the Corps recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Corps of Engineers Natural Resources Education Foundation (CNREF).
The foundation will bring potential partners together with the Corps to support approved but unfunded natural resources projects.
National goals of the foundation are to provide additional financial and volunteer support for Corps recreation and natural resources projects, assist local and regional Corps of Engineers advocacy groups in raising funds for enhancement projects, and facilitate partnerships between public and private sectors and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. Individual district/stakeholder meetings to develop money making strategies have not been scheduled.
26. Question: What is Vicksburg doing with the foundation to get additional financial and volunteer support for the Corps in keeping the projects public?
Answer: See answer 25. However, specific district program goals and tasks of the CNREF have not been developed.
27. Question: Explain why the Corps is proposing a leasing plan with such an impact on the public and will not consider the leasing proposal to be a major federal action that should meet NEPA?
Answer: Leasing for the operation and maintenance of campgrounds does not fall under NEPA. Major construction projects proposed after leasing occurs will have to meet all local, state and national environmental requirements.
28. Question: What studies has the Corps done to determine if leasing of the campground will adversely impact the public who uses these campgrounds?
Answer: No formal studies have been conducted. However, leasing has the potential of keeping more campgrounds open than the Corps may be able to accomplish with current funding.
29. Question: What analysis, evaluation, and assessment have been done on the impact of increasing prices on the public to continue using the Corps Campgrounds?
Answer: No formal analysis has been performed. However, an evaluation of the proposed fee structure is required as part of consideration of a specific lease proposal.
30. Question: What can the public expect from the lessee in the first, second, third, forth, and fifth year of the lease, if the camping price increases from its current level?
Answer: See answer 29. The Vicksburg District has never leased Class A campgrounds to private sector interests.
As such, the short term effects from leasing are expected to maintain campgrounds in an open status and provide high quality services at a fair price to the public.
At this time, long term benefits are unclear.
It is anticipated that private lessees may be able to utilize user fees to upgrade facilities easier than through federal operations.
31. Question: What studies has the Corps done to determine the affect of: 1. Retention of user-fees, 2. Unit payment over campsite payment, 3. Open reservation rather than site specific, 4. Reservable campsites for a week or more, 5. Use of NAFI funds, 6. Armed Forces rebates from NAFI for soldier use of USACE campgrounds, and Stakeholder/partnership sponsorships versus campground leasing?
Answer: The Corps has data for current fee revenue and how much that would provide projects compared to the amount received through appropriated funds. In most cases, the addition of fee retention will not cover all costs. Fees paid on a unit basis would likely increase the overall fee paid by the visitor. At the present time, any increase in fees is not realized by the Corps as they are returned to the Unites States Treasury. Under current regulations, Class A and Class B campgrounds are required to participate in the National Recreation Reservation System. This system reserves specific sites rather than open sites and national policy is that no sites can be reserved for more than 14 consecutive days.
32. Question: The conclusion of the St. Louis meeting on April 2 stated, “FY 09 will be a year of assessment, evaluation, and adjustments - local adjustments should be made if necessary” and “FY 10 will continue assessment and adjustments.” Does this mean HQ USACE will not implement a plan of campground leasing until its assessment, evaluation, and adjustments to “Pilot” studies within that two year window?
Answer: The Vicksburg District plans to make a decision on the leasing option by spring of 2009.
We will take into consideration public opinion, effectiveness of other options and experience with leasing from this area and other parts of the Corps/Nation.
In addition, lessons learned from other Districts across the nation will be compared to local issues and potentially utilized to formulate solutions.
However, future budgets will strongly dictate changes to the recreation program in future years.
33. Question: How will leasing some recreation areas improve operation and maintenance for the remaining recreation areas administered by the Corps of Engineers?
Answer: It is anticipated that with the same funding level and fewer facilities to maintain, the Vicksburg District will be able to concentrate efforts and funds in open areas.
It is also realized that it will require operating costs to administer leases and conduct compliance inspections.
34. Question: Is the Corps already in negotiations with different groups for leasing? If so, can I get in on a bid? Is there going to be some disclosure of who, what, where, when and why?
Answer:
The Vicksburg District Corps is not presently engaged in negotiation to lease any campground.
However, the Corps has discussed leasing as an option in prior stakeholder meetings.
In these discussions, the Corps has solicited the interest in leasing with several concessionaires.
In all, four commercial concessions have expressed interest in the following campgrounds:
Brady Mountain, Joplin and Lena Landing at Lake Ouachita, and Self Creek/Jim Wylie at Lake Greeson.
If leasing is decided as an option, the Corps will solicit and/or advertise for interested entities to present a development and management plan for specific areas.
35. Question: How old is the infrastructure in the recreation areas now?
Answer: Over 40 years old at Lake Ouachita and Lake Greeson and over 30 years old at DeGray Lake.
36. Question: Has the Corps done a study to see what the difference of usage of the campsites is from the reservation system since before the reservation system?
Answer: Although no formal studies have been conducted, fee collection and campsite occupancy records verify that the reservation system resulted in substantial drops in occupancy and fee collection revenue in Class A campgrounds at Lakes Ouachita, Greeson and DeGray.
An informal study at Lake Greeson revealed that fewer sites in the NRRS system results in a greater campsite occupancy rate for both reservable and non-reservable sites.
37. Question: Why do you not offer a free camping site for a carpenter or somebody that is able to do carpentry to go in and do things?
Answer: As a participant in the Corps Volunteer program, a person can receive free camping in exchange for in-kind work under the program. We are currently working with several volunteers that are performing various tasks in campgrounds of which some have exchanged for free camping. The campsite for work exchange is in compliance with Engineering Regulation 1130-2-500, Chapter 10, 10-2.l. (3).
38. Question: Have you done any partnerships with any other government agencies?
Answer: Yes. We often work with, the U.S. Forest Service, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Arkansas Department of Health, Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department, and . The Corps also works with city and county governments.
39. Question: Why not use the Job Corps from the Forest Service as a partner?
Answer: The Job Corps schedule is completed far in advance and depends largely on the number of students they have in particular trades at the time a job needs to be completed. Our schedules have not synchronized well in the past. However, they have assisted in performing some work related projects over the years at Lake Ouachita.
40. Question: Did the NRRS cancel all reservations for this September?
Answer: Yes, at Lake Ouachita. However, they were all reinstated.
41. Question: Did you guys do research on which campgrounds to close before you closed them?
Answer: Yes. After the decision was made to keep one Class A campground open at Lake Ouachita, one Class A campground open at DeGray and two Class A campgrounds open at Lake Greeson, we reviewed and analyzed use patterns, operational costs, serviceability, accessibility, location, etc. in determining which campgrounds to leave open during the fall, winter and spring.
42. Question: Why do you close an area and kick paying campers out, when you still have to pay electrical bills and leave hot water running and send people to collect trash?
Answer: Trash collection is discontinued after closure. Bathroom and shower buildings are closed, water is turned off and the facilities are winterized. Electrical service remains on for security lighting and to enable us to perform off season maintenance to water and sewer treatment plants.
43. Question: What are the chances of the 3 lakes coming under Little Rock District?
Answer: Corps of Engineers District boundaries is based on river watershed basins. Transfer of the three Vicksburg District lakes in Arkansas would require Congressional authorization and would go counter to the historic watershed basin concept approach of holistic river system management. It is unlikely that Lakes Ouachita, Greeson and DeGray will be transferred to another District.
44. Question: Is there a petition I could sign to send to Corps headquarters?
Answer: The Corps does not solicit or distribute petitions.
45. Question: If a Recreation Area is leased and the lease is voluntarily surrendered or taken back by the Corps, how soon will the Recreation Area be available for public use?
Answer: The area would likely not be re-opened to the public under Corps operation. The Corps would solicit proposals from other interested parties to re-lease the area.
46. Question: How long will lease holders be required to honor discount passes accepted at Corps operated recreation facilities?
Answer: Lessees will not be required to honor discount passes.
47. Question: Leasing Corps operated Recreation Areas to private enterprise is inconsistent with the Lake Ouachita Master Plan? What is the schedule for considering amendments to the Master Plan?
Answer: Under the Master Plan, all campgrounds on the Lakes are designated as high density recreation areas. The party operating the campground (i.e. Federal or Private) does not affect the designation. As a result, Master Plans are not likely to be amended in the near future.
48. Question: How will the Corps evaluate and enforce leases? Will all evaluations and enforcement actions be available for public review?
Answer: Compliance inspections will be conducted on an annual basis to ensure terms and conditions of the lease.
Results of the lease inspections are maintained in the Vicksburg District and can be requested through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
49. Question: Will the public be allowed additional comment periods after more details are known but before any leases are signed?
Answer: At minimum, a period accepting written comments will be implemented if leasing is determined to be the most feasible option for campground operation.
50. Question: If these areas were leased what would happen to the boat ramps? Would we be able to access them? Will people be able to fish in that area? Use the bathroom?
Answer: Facilities within an area will be available for customer use. However, the lessee may require a fee for certain facilities. Fishing is permitted at all areas on Corps Lakes, except where it is expressly prohibited.
51. Question: Before you lease what is the process of how that information is going to be looked at and analyzed?
Answer: A Corps Vicksburg District review panel will determine the most qualified and responsible lease applicant, based on the best overall operation and management plan proposed and the applicant’s experience and financial capability.
52. Before any action is taken on leasing will there be another public meeting?
Answer: See answer 49.
53. Question: When will you come back with a plan, or an economic analysis showing savings?
Answer: The Corps is currently reviewing the costs of campground operation in relation to the forecasted FY 2009 federal recreation budget for the Arkansas Lakes. Decisions to lease, close, or otherwise change campground operations will be based on operation versus cost once the 2009 operating budget is known. A basic economic analysis will be generated approximately one month prior to implementation in any campground operational change.
54. Question: What percent does the reservation contract get?
Answer: Approximately 12% of user fees collected pays for the reservation contract
The breakdown is:
The contractor gets $9.31 per reservation made by the Call Center
$6.35 for reservations made over the Internet
and $2.80 for each reservation made at a fee booth.
55. Question: Has Vicksburg closed parks in Mississippi and Louisiana?
Answer: Yes, occasional temporary closures have occurred in those States. In most cases the parks were closed due to operational conditions such as storm damage, flooding, or scheduled repairs.
56. Question: Why don’t we waive the Golden Age passport on the weekend if you do not book for 5 days?
Answer: The America the Beautiful Senior Pass program (formerly called Golden Age Passport program) is a federal program which covers all federally operated campgrounds. The passports cannot be waived by the Corps since the program applies to several federal agencies.
57. Question: When will Lake Ouachita campsites be open this fall and next year?
Answer: Specific campground openings will be determined based on final FY09 funding which will not be known until January 2009.
58. Question: Has privatization of Lake Ouachita areas been considered?
Answer: Allowing private businesses (concessionaires) to operate under lease agreements is allowed on Lake Ouachita.
Consideration will be given to allowing those areas to expand their existing operation if leasing is determined to be the preferred alternative.
59. Question: When an area is leased, where does the money go? What percent to the Corps?
Answer: Rents received are deposited into the miscellaneous receipts of the U. S. Treasury.
Seventy-five (75%) percent of these receipts are returned to the state/counties for the benefit of public schools and roads of the county where the property is situated (33 USC 701c-3).
60. Question: At the beginning of the reservation system, what percent were reservable, was it 40% reservable?
Answer: The initial number of reservable sites was less than 40%; however, national contract requirements have since increased that number to 60%.
61. Question: What is the policy for length of stay at Lake Ouachita?
Answer: Fourteen (14) days during May – September, up to 58 days during fall, winter and spring with individually approved extensions.
62. Question: When are you going to fix the reservation system? Make reservations for 5 days at the time, no weekends?
Answer: The Vicksburg District has submitted a reservation waiver request to Corps Headquarters. If approved, it would reduce the number of reservable sites in each campground. We anticipate making changes to the reservation system for 2009, by reducing the percentage of reservable sites to accommodate spontaneous decisions to camp. Weekend only reservations will continue to be allowed to permit those who have only weekends to camp can still benefit from the NRRS.
63. Question: Why can’t the city get water out of Lake Ouachita instead of having to use water from the Saline River?
Answer: Lake Ouachita is being considered as a potential water supply for the Mid-Arkansas Water Alliance. Individual cities can contact the Vicksburg District Programs, Planning and Project Management Division for information on how to pursue a request for water withdrawal from the Lake.
64. Question: When will DeGray Lake campsites be open this fall and next year?
Answer: Rolling closures will begin after Labor Day and continue based on use until mid-November when winter closures will be fully implemented. Rolling openings will begin on 1 March and will continue until 1 May when all campgrounds will be fully open. Beginning mid-Nov 2008 until 1 March 2009, Arlie Moore campground will be open. All other Class A campgrounds will be closed and Class C campgrounds will be open without service.
65. Question: What is rolling open operation of campgrounds?
Answer: Rolling openings are the partial opening of campgrounds to accommodate campers on-site and are used during the Spring as camping demand increases. Additional areas (loops) in campgrounds are opened as additional campers arrive and fill all vacant sites in the open areas. Similarly, rolling closings are used in the fall to close some campgrounds and loops in others as demand for camping diminishes during the winter months.
66. Question: Is it legal to privatize the property around DeGray Lake?
Answer: It is legal to issue leases to private business to operate on Corps property around the Lake. The Corps does not permit any other type privatization of property.
67. Question: Why can’t we ride 4 wheelers on DeGray Lake?
Answer: All terrain vehicles are not allowed on lands in designated wildlife management areas in order to protect the environment and ensure healthy wildlife populations.
68. Question: When will Lake Greeson campsites be open this fall and next year?
Answer: Rolling closures will begin after Labor Day and continue based on use until mid-November when winter closures will be fully implemented. Rolling openings will begin on 1 March and will continue until 1 May when all campgrounds will be fully open.
69. Question: How much money is needed to keep things open at Lake Greeson, 4 million dollars?
Answer: Four million dollars would fund Recreation, Flood Damage Reduction, and Environmental Stewardship programs to a level that would provide opportunities for present visitation and allow for maintenance of facilities to continue. In 2008, an additional $400,000 would have allowed campground operations at the 2007 level of service.
70. Question: When areas are leased at Lake Greeson, which areas would be leased first?
Answer: The decision on whether or not to pursue leasing campgrounds has been delayed until Spring of 2009.
We have received interest in leasing Self Creek, Jim Wylie, and Kirby Landing campgrounds.
71. Question: Was the deadline for leasing advertised?
Answer: Note answer 70. No formal solicitation has been done.
72. Question: When you did the closings of the recreation areas/campgrounds, did savings result?
Answer: The savings generated through campground closures were redistributed to maintain a minimum acceptable level of service during the peak recreation season and allow the Corps to balance work across all projects missions.
73. Question: What was the dollar amount of the savings?
Answer: Anticipated savings were not actually realized as the initial operating plan was altered to accommodate rolling openings during the spring of 2008. Those costs were mitigated by temporary, one-time reductions in other business lines which have potential of high-risk consequences if not addressed in the future.
74. Question: What if there was no reservation system?
Answer: Without the reservation system, campgrounds would be operated on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers who travel long distances to the Lakes would have a much more difficult time obtaining a campsite, especially some of the more preferred sites in Corps campgrounds.
75. Question: How does the budget process work?
Answer: See answer 77. Each individual Vicksburg District Lake project is authorized an annual budget through Congressional appropriations. Our fiscal year is October 1 – September 30.
76. Question: The Corps has cut timber on the property, what happens to the money?
Answer: Money from timber sales is returned to the District, where it is then dispersed to cover the administrative cost of the sales, with the remainder returned directly to the project for use in environmental stewardship programs.
77. Question: Why is Arkansas not getting the same funding as Mississippi and Louisiana?
Answer: Projects are funded individually by the Energy and Water Appropriations Act. This act is the result of the President’s budget being presented to Congress. Congress subsequently passes an Energy and Water Appropriations Bill which is presented for Presidential signature, upon which the bill becomes law. Individual project funding is the result of this process. Project funding varies by size, type, usage, facilities, funds available, maintenance needs, and budget ceilings.
78. Question: How are you working with Little Rock?
Answer: District personnel meet to compare mode of operation and discuss business practices across Arkansas projects. In addition, the Vicksburg District is utilizing a road paving contract administered by the Little Rock District to accomplish work. This cooperation across districts has resulted in a saving.
79. Question: What cost-saving processes has the Executive Office initiated within the Vicksburg District Office that will reduce the overhead burden to field projects, particularly Arkansas projects?
Answer: The Commander closely monitors overhead rates of the Vicksburg District and directs appropriate labor charges when working on items specifically identified to a project.