November 12, 2020
Implementation of America the Beautiful Program Changes for Veterans and Gold Star Families, and 5th Graders
On behalf of Mr. Lee, Director of Civil Works, attached is implementation guidance on two programs expanding benefits for free access to Federally managed recreation lands that charge an admittance fee. Specifically, this guidance expands benefits for access to 5th Graders through the Every Kid Outdoors Program (EKO) through 30 AUG 2021 and expands access to Veterans, and Gold Star Family Members through the America the Beautiful Pass Program beginning Veterans Day 11 November 2020 until amended, suspended, or revoked. These expanded benefits are part of a joint effort among all the Federal land management agencies. Mr. James (ASA(CW)) has directed the Corps of Engineers to participate in these newly expanded programs. A brief explanation follows.
Veteran's and Gold Star Families. To receive benefits, Veterans must demonstrate proof of their status by presenting a valid veteran identification card. Gold Star Family members are asked to visit the following website, https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/veterans-and-gold-star-families- free-access.htm, where documentation of Gold Star status can be obtained and printed in the form of a paper voucher. Currently, the voucher is only available on-line. Veteran IDs and Gold Star vouchers can be presented to obtain an AtB Military Pass. Military passes will be marked to expire one year from the date of issuance.
Every Kid Outdoors Pass (EKO) Pass Program. Fifth grade students (including home-schooled and free-choice learners) can visit the National Park Service website at https://www.nps.gov/kids/fifthgra de.htm to obtain and print a paper voucher. Students should present the paper voucher at federal locations that charge a per-person entrance fee, a standard amenity fee, or day use recreation fee. This change will ensure that 5th grade students who may not have been able to make full use of the Every Kid Outdoors Annual 4th Grade Pass during the 2019-2020 academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic will have a chance to do so during the current academic year through Aug. 31, 2021.
These benefits do not apply to camping and camping-related services, or fees for specialized facilities (e.g., group picnic shelters) and events. Some facilities and activities on federal recreation lands are managed by other agencies or private concessionaires whose services would not be covered by these benefits. Please review and ensure wide distribution of the attached documents.
Please contact Scott Strotman (james.s.strotman@usace.army.mil, 202-761-0036) with any questions.
Respectfully,
Tom
Thomas P. Smith, P.E., SES
Chief, Operations and Regulatory
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