WASHINGTON (AP) -- A new fee schedule for commercial filming in Yellowstone and other national parks should be changed to protect small, independent photographers and documentary filmmakers, Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., told the Department of Interior on Monday.

The interim fees, scheduled to go into effect May 15, would charge filmmakers at least $150 per day for filming in the park. They now pay just $200 per year, plus fees for any park services or assistance they require.

In a letter, Baucus told acting Interior Secretary Lynn Scarlett the fee schedule isn't fair and that small filmmakers and photographers should not have to pay the same fees as large scale productions.

''This sharp increase would put many of Montana's documentary filmmakers out of business,'' he said. ''I strongly urge you to revisit your fee program and come up with a schedule that recognizes the important role independent filmmakers play in promoting our national parks and educating the public.''

Small photographers and filmmakers play an important part in promoting and protecting national parks, as well as educating children about park features, Baucus said.

He added that filming in national parks is good for conservation and the economy.

''This is a basic matter of fairness,'' Baucus said. ''Why would a smaller operation such as a documentary filmmaker working to educate the public have to pay such astronomical fees? It makes no sense to me at all. This plan could also hurt Montana's economy and tourism industry. It needs to be changed.''