Dillon, Mont., September 29, 2017 —The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest (BDNF) is considering an increase in the number of commercial special use permits for outfitter and guides currently authorized to operate on the forest, excluding the designated Anaconda-Pintler and Lee Metcalf Wilderness areas.  The forest is soliciting interest from organizations, businesses, and individuals to provide commercial outfitter and guided activities on the national forest.

Commercial outfitter and guides provide a service that cannot otherwise be obtained by the general public.  A range of activities from education to traditional hunting and fishing are currently authorized.  There is the potential to increase guided services for activities such as motorized winter or summer touring as well as non-motorized summer and winter activities.

“Guided commercial services provide an opportunity for some people who don’t have the expertise, equipment or knowledge to recreate on the national forest on their own,” said Forest Supervisor Melany Glossa. “Outfitters and guides are a valuable part of the local recreation economy, helping to provide good jobs and keeping outdoor recreation sustainable.”

The forest is considering authorization of additional commercial outfitter and guide services.  Service days are any day or portion of a day where an outfitter or guide has a client on the forest.   Organizations or individuals who charge fees must have a permit in order to lead trips on national forest land. The permits authorize the number of days they can operate in the forest, and where the activities can occur.

Proposals for new commercial uses or expansion of existing commercial uses will be accepted through October 31, 2017 in order to be considered for the 2018 summer season.  A prospectus may be issued if there is competitive interest for activities.

Interested parties can go online to https://www.fs.usda.gov/bdnf for more information.  They are also encouraged to contact BDNF offices in Dillon (406) 683-3900; Wisdom (406) 689-3243; Butte (406) 494-2147; Ennis (406) 682-4253; Philipsburg (406) 859-3211 to obtain information about outfitting and guiding on the Forest.  Written proposals may be e-mailed to Noelle Meier at nmeier@fs.fed.us,  or mailed to: Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, 420 Barrett St, Dillon, MT 59725, Attn: Outfitter Guide Proposals.