Honoring Public Lands Day

Date: September 27, 2007

Contact(s): Bob Moore [phone]
Myron Freeedman [phone]

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial
Suspends Entrance Fees in Honor of Public Lands Day

WHEN: Saturday September 29, 2007

WHAT: Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne has announced that all entrance fees to National Park Service areas will be waived on September 29, 2007, in honor of National Public Lands Day. The fee waiver also applies to other agencies within the Department of the Interior, such as the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bureau of Land Management, as well as lands managed by the Department of Agriculture’s National Forest Service. In St. Louis, Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, including the Gateway Arch, will not charge entrance fees on this day. However, fees to ride the tram to the top of the Gateway Arch and for viewing films at the park will still be charged. Special events at the Gateway Arch Visitor Center will include:

 · Alaska: Spirit of the Wild shown at 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm and 4:30pm on the four story high wide screen in the Odyssey Theater.

· At 10:00 am and 2:00 pm, Park Rangers will speak about public lands throughout the nation and in Missouri as well as the seven principles of the Leave No Trace Frontcountry Program. This nationally acclaimed outdoor ethics awareness program teaches principles to follow at all times whether one is on a wilderness campout or picnicking in one’s municipal park.

· The Museum Store offers a wide selection of publications and guides on national park sites and public lands.

WHY: Jefferson National Expansion Memorial commemorates St. Louis’ role in the westward expansion of the United States during the 19th century. The entrance fee-free day presents an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience national parks and exercise their minds and bodies while uplifting their spirits.

The Gateway Arch will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout the weekend, while the Old Courthouse will be open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visit us at www.nps.gov/jeff.