SEELEY LAKE - The Seeley Lake Ranger District has announced a Nov. 30 deadline for submitting 2018/2019 winter/spring Recreation Event Special Use Permit applications. Applications received past this deadline will not be accepted for review.
A Recreation Event Special Use Permit is required for organizing any use or activity on National Forest System lands that meets either of the following criteria, regardless of whether the use or activity is intended to produce a profit:
• Where an entry or participation fee is charged. Donations are considered fees if they exceed the direct costs of the event.
• Where the primary purpose is the sale of a good or service (commercial products or activities) on National Forest System lands.
Please note: Outfitter and guide services are not included in the recreation event permitting process.
The Nov. 30 deadline is designed to best meet public interest with available resources and the objectives of:
• Providing the opportunity for interested parties to apply for Recreation Event Permits.
• Ensuring all recreation events on National Forest System lands are appropriately permitted.
• Allowing for quality recreation events that comply with standards for resource protection.
According to District officials, proposals are evaluated based on: potential resource impact; social and 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.
A permit fee is required for all recreation events. The fee is $76 or five percent of adjusted gross receipts (gross revenue less cost to holders of prizes awarded), whichever is greater. Liability insurance and an operating plan are also required for all recreation events. Additionally, 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 and events may be limited when soils are 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 Will Shoutis at 406-677-3924 wshoutis@fs.fed.us for a template and application form.
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