Kalispell, MT, September 18, 2024 — The Flathead National Forest is seeking public input on the renewal of five existing priority outfitter and guide special use permits on the non-wilderness portions of the North and Middle Forks of the Three Forks of the Flathead Wild and Scenic River.

Permitted outfitting and guiding on the North and Middle Forks promote and impart river and bear safety practices, resource protection (such as the proper fishing techniques), river etiquette, and the unique attributes of this Wild and Scenic River. Five permits are up for renewal and have previously been issued for up to nearly 50 consecutive years. These permits are due to expire in April 2025. If authorized again, the new permits would be issued for a 10-year term from 2025 to 2035.

Outfitting and guiding permit authorization is evaluated under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Project information can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/flathead/?project=66916.

Please email comments, concerns, and suggestions regarding the North and Middle Fork Flathead River Outfitter and Guide Permit Renewal to comments-northern-flathead-hungry-horse-glacier-view@usda.gov  with “North and Middle Fork Flathead River Outfitter and Guide Permit Renewal Project” in the subject line.

Please contact M.J. Crandall, Project Leader, at 406 387-3818, michael.crandall@usda.gov for more information regarding the project.