SEELEY LAKE – The Seeley Lake Ranger District typically holds a yearly “open season” from Nov. 1 through Jan. 15, during which time interested parties can apply for permits to hold recreation events on National Forest lands.
In an effort to streamline the application process and better accommodate permit applicants, the District will now be hosting two open seasons per calendar year. A fall open season will run from Nov. 1 – Nov. 30 for winter recreation event permit applications and a spring open season will run from March 1 - March 31 for summer recreation event permit applications.
Applications received outside of these dates will be reviewed and accommodated as time and scheduling allows.
A Recreation Event Special Use Permit is typically required for events on National Forest System lands that meet any of the following criteria:
• Charge a fee for participation
• Have paid staff
• Have an attendance of 75 or more people including staff
• Promote commercial products or activities
Outfitter and guide services are not included in the recreation event permitting process.
The open season is designed to best meet the needs of the public with available resources and the objectives of:
• Opportunity for interested parties to apply for Recreation Event Permits
• Appropriate, high-quality recreation opportunities for the public
• Comply with standards for resource protection
According to District officials, proposals are evaluated based on resource impact, resource conditions in the proposed event area, availability of various types of events in the area, public need and compliance with the Lolo National Forest Land Management Plan.
According to District Recreation Specialists, permitted events are typically required to provide garbage removal and in some cases restroom facilities. Off-trail activities are not permitted unless they occur over the snow. Events may also be limited when soils are too wet to prevent resource damage. District officials also seek to manage the permitting process to avoid congestion at recreation areas that already receive heavy use.
A template that provides details and standards for a successful application is available at the District office. Interested parties may contact Chad Mullman at (406) 677-3922 chadmmullman@fs.fed.us for a template and application form.
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