Crater Lake plans to more strictly enforce no-drone rule

SALEM, Oregon — The use of drones is outlawed at national parks.

But the falling price and improving technology of what are officially known as unmanned aircraft have led to increase in the number buzzing over Oregon’s only national park – Crater Lake.

Park superintendent Craig Ackerman told the Statesman Journal they’ve become a problem, with drones buzzing over boat tours and creating other negative impacts.

He said the park plans to increase enforcement of the no-drone rule.

Violation of the ban is a misdemeanor with the maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $5,000 fine.