Government

BLM Las Cruces District installs cashless payment kiosks at recreation areas

Photo: Adobe Stock

September 6, 2024

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Las Cruces District in New Mexico has introduced Remote Off-Grid Kiosks at Three Rivers Petroglyph Recreation Area, Aguirre Spring Campground and Dripping Springs Natural Area, according to a press release. These kiosks are designed to accept card payments, offering visitors a more convenient and secure alternative to cash.

"We believe these cashless systems will provide our visitors with a more efficient way to pay recreation fees," Dave Wallace, Las Cruces District Assistant Manager for Multi-Resources, said in the release. "They will also minimize the need for the envelope and cash system used with traditional iron ranger boxes."

Powered by solar energy, the kiosks can operate in remote areas without cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi or external power. Visitors can use the kiosks to select standard or group campsites and receive discounts for standard campsites if they have a valid Senior Access Pass.

The kiosks prioritize payment security, featuring point-to-point encryption and compliance with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. No card information is visible during transactions.