Montana State Parks (stateparks.mt.gov) announced today that it is seeking comment on proposed changes to the Smith River State Park and River Corridor Biennial Rule. Public comments will be accepted through Thursday, January 19th, 2017 at 5pm.

The Smith River Biennial Rule sets fees, permit requirements and guidelines for private, commercial and landowner float trips on the popular Smith River.

The proposed draft Smith River Biennial Rule would change language related to home-made, bear resistant storage containers for storing food, garbage and other attractants. While certified home-made containers will still be allowed, capacity for certifying these containers is limited. Removing language which references these containers specifically would better align visitor expectations with the limited availability of certification professionals. The remaining edits/changes to the rule are grammatical to improve consistency and understanding of terminology and the recognition of a new commercial outfitter. The proposed rule does not include any fee changes.

The draft rule received tentative approval from the Montana State Parks & Recreation Board on December 14, 2016. To review the proposed biennial rule, go to stateparks.mt.gov and click on ‘Public Comments’.

A 30 day public comment period will be open through Thursday, January 19th, 2017 at 5pm. To comment online visit stateparks.mt.gov or by direct link here:  http://stateparks.mt.gov/news/publicNotices/board/pn_0016.html

Comments may be mailed to: Smith River Biennial Rule Comments, 4600 Giant Springs Rd., Great Falls, MT 59405.

For questions about the Smith River State Park and River Corridor Biennial Rule contact Colin Maas at (406) 454-5857 or cmaas@mt.gov.

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