One final issue I’m looking into is an unforseen burden being placed on the judicial system in Skamania County. As you know, Washington State parks – such as Beacon Rock and Spring Creek Hatchery – now require that a Discover Pass be purchased from the state before vehicles can enter the property to use any facilities or recreate.

It seems that many people are either ignoring that requirement or are apparently unaware that the area at which they are stopping is, in fact, a state park. As a result, the state has issued a multitude of fines against these individuals, causing an enormous backlog within Skamania County’s judicial system.

I’m looking into what can be done from a legislative level to help ease the burden on Skamania County and perhaps make visitors to our wonderful state parks more aware that they require a Discover Pass if they want to take advantage of the area. If you are in need of a Discover Pass for 2014, please visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov. They’re only $30 for the year, or $10 for the day, but they come with a $99 fine if not displayed when you’re at a state park.