Michigan has sold more than one million Recreation Passports since the program began eight months ago, bringing in $10 million for the benefit of Michigan’s parks and outdoor recreation in general, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson and Department of Natural Resources Director Rodney Stokes said. 




The Passports replace the old window sticker system and allow annual access to all of Michigan’s 98 state parks and recreation areas and 1,000 boat launches for just $10 ($5 for motorcycles).  They can be purchased at the time motorists renew their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State, or when visiting a park.  Motorists who elect to buy a Passport have a “P” indicator printed on their license plate tab, which park rangers will check for either at the entrance booth or in the parking areas.


 

“Many people are discovering what a tremendous value the Recreation Passport is and in buying one,” said Johnson. “They are helping preserve our parks for future generations.”

Stokes said sales are on target to meet projections leading into the summer, when motorist may be more inclined to opt into paying the fee.


Michigan shifted to the Recreation Passport model in 2010 when it became apparent that the state’s user fee system would not generate enough revenue to maintain recreational amenities at state parks and forests. Michigan eliminated general revenue funding for its state parks in 2004, well ahead of other states just now wrestling with state park funding issues.


Michigan state parks and recreation areas now rely completely on Motor Vehicle Permit and camping fees, along with an annual share of the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund established in 1994. DNRE was forced to close 12 state forest campgrounds in 2009.