Joe Bald Rd. Park Gonna Be Locked Up?

[Wayne SW/MO]

Bill there is a growing number of full time RV'ers who are retired and willing to do a little for what amounts to free utilities. I'm sure they wouldn't be interested if it were a job, but to be eyes and ears, do some trimming, not a lot of mowing, maybe pick up a little behind some human pigs. Maybe there are fewer then I think, but maybe not.

[vernon]

The Corps would require a contract. They are ultimately responsible for what happens on Corps land. If volunteers don't fulfill their obligation it reflects directly on the Corps. Hence a legal contract would be required. I know you guys think it's a simple fix but it's not when there are liability issues.

If I just "promised" you that I would take care of your home and property for a few months while you were away would you say "OK"? I mean how big a deal could it be? Trust me. I'll take care of it. I bet not.

[ozarkgunner]

I use joe bald all the time. It's the quickest way up to Baxter from my place down dd.

[Mike Ray]

I use it a lot too not during the heat /madness of summer but spring and fall prob. two three times a week. so tax payer dollars built it quess it makes no differance if they just lock it up. Roads,tables ramp just there?again seems like major waste to me.

[denjac]

Why don't they lease these Parks to private enterprise? With standards that have to be maintained. I may be wrong but believe 13 campground is privately leased.I know right now I wouldn't leave my truck parked down there.heard to many stories of break ins and vandalism.

[Gilly]

Wayne, I'm talking about fishing in general losing participation. Many states across the country have reported declining license sales for both hunting and fishing over the last couple of decades. Obviously, license sales are a direct indicator for the sport in general.

I have to concur on this and add that it applies to quite a few pastimes.......but it is the 'sign of the times', right? Take a kid fishing, shooting, hiking or go bike riding with them!! I spent years as a scoutmaster. It was my policy that no one could bring electronics on campouts. I took the time the other day to visit the old troop at one of their campouts. Good grief.....Ipods and Androids. I didn't hang out very long as the adult leaders seemed to condone it to some extent. "It is what you have to do to keep them engaged....". We all need to be mentors to our children, grandchildren, youth. Take time to say "hey" to the neighbor kids. My grandson and I were standing in the driveway practicing fishing....pitching at Tupperware boxes. Kids from around the corner stopped by, never met them before. They gave it a try. Couple of days later their dad stopped by and wondered what to buy their kids. "Want to meet us at Cabela's?" I was happy to do it and amazed that apparent electronic junkies were so totally clueless. The kids also wanted to buy a small tent and 'camp' in the backyard. Hey, it's a start. We left them at the store as they still had a lot of exploring to do.

[Ozark Ranger]

This is a shame. I remember going there as a kid

[Wayne SW/MO]

Vernon I don't see why a contract would be a problem? It would work both ways with the individual having some security in knowing he wouldn't be ask to leave without notice. They use RV contractors in camping areas, so I don't see a problem. KC district uses people year around in at least one park. Maybe Little Rock should communicate.

[dblades]

I learned this spring that a lot of the corp parks aren't currently run by the corps, when I was looking for a park pass. Cape Fair park isn't run by the corp,Campbell Point isn't run by the corp but Viola campground is.

[vernon]

Vernon I don't see why a contract would be a problem? It would work both ways with the individual having some security in knowing he wouldn't be ask to leave without notice. They use RV contractors in camping areas, so I don't see a problem. KC district uses people year around in at least one park. Maybe Little Rock should communicate.

It likely wouln't be a problem. However, somebody has to initiate the action by contacting the District Contracting Officer to make a proposal and negotiating an agreement that both sides find beneficial. Happens all day every day at the Corps.