For visitors and workers at the Clarno Unit of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the closest thing to a ranger station is a 76-square-foot structure that also serves as a water treatment facility. The Oregon park hopes to change that with a proposal to construct a new building with an attached garage and fenced yard.

The building would be about 870 square feet and include an information counter for displays and handouts, accessible office space for up to three employees, a kitchenette, and an indoor restroom with flush toilet. Two potential locations are outlined in an Environmental Assessment, which is open to public comment until April 10.

“We are excited to hear the public’s comments about this proposed facility that will better serve park visitors to the Clarno Unit, as well as providing a more productive location for staff to work,” Superintendent Shelley Hall said in a release.

The park says the current site is in substandard condition for a ranger office and vehicle storage area, and lacks security and safety features. The new ranger station would improve operational efficiency; enhance resource protection; meet or exceed health and safety standards and building codes; enhance visitor experience and safety; and provide visitors with a clearly identifiable emergency point of contact.

The existing building would continue to be used as a water treatment facility.

The NPS is considering three options:

• Alternative 1: No action (retain existing functions at water treatment building).
• Alternative 2: Construct new ranger station adjacent to Palisades Picnic Area.
• Alternative 3: Construct new ranger station south of Camp Hancock.  

The Environmental Assessment says Palisades Picnic Area is the preferred location.

The Clarno Unit encompasses 1,969 acres, including frontcountry and backcountry trails, a picnic area, restrooms, potable water, parking, wayside exhibits, and some fully accessible visitor use areas. The unit is one of three in John Day Fossil Beds. It is a two-hour drive to the Sheep Rock Unit, where park headquarters is located, and a 90-minute drive to the Painted Hills Unit.

Comments will be accepted until April 10. To make electronic comments or to learn more about this project, visit this website. To submit written comments, send them via mail to: Superintendent, John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, 32651 Highway 19, Kimberly, OR 97848.