SUSANVILLE, Calif., March 12, 2020 – The Lassen National Forest is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts because of the many lakes and streams it contains. With so many opportunities to catch the big one, our Forest is often the host of many commercial uses activities such as fishing events and fish guiding operations.
Sound stewardship of your National Forests includes the proper management of commercial activities and appropriate permitting of these types of special events. Commercial use or activity on National Forest System (NFS) land occurs when there is a charge for a fee (entry or participation) or if the primary purpose is the sale of goods or services, regardless of the intent to produce a profit.
“It is essential to be aware of the requirement for a permit when using Forest Service facilities events or services,” said Deb Bumpus. “These events or services include boat launches where fishing tournaments are held or guiding services that occur on NFS lands, such as the Canyon Dam or Almanor Boat Launches.”
Operating or hosting events on NFS lands without a permit is illegal and in violation of the Code of Federal Regulations, 36CFR261.10 ©, 36CFR 261.10 (k), 36CFR 261.10 (n) for which a citation may be issued.
Violations of these regulations are Class B misdemeanors punishable by a maximum fine of $5,000 or up to six (6) months in jail, or both.
To start the process of obtaining a permit for your event or operation on NFS land, contact the Forest Service office in the area where you wish to have your activity. The administrator is available for guidance on the application, requirements, and fees. Depending on the size and duration of your activity, there may be other costs for which you are responsible for as part of your authorized activity. Liability insurance coverage or a performance bond to ensure the protection of the environment and site cleanup may be required.
Please contact your local Forest Service Office for information about special uses and to obtain the necessary permit application forms:
• Eagle Lake Ranger District - (530) 257-4188
• Almanor Ranger District - (530) 258-2141
• Hat Creek Ranger District - (530) 336-5521
For additional information about recreational activity permits, please visit our website at:
https://www.fs.fed.us/specialuses/special_com_uses.shtml
The mission of the U.S. Forest Service, part U.S. Department of Agriculture, is to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world. Public lands the Forest Service manages contribute more than $13 billion to the economy each year through visitor spending alone. Those same lands provide 20 percent of the nation's clean water supply, a value estimated at $7.2 billion per year. The agency has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 80 percent of the 850 million forested acres within the U.S., of which 100 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live.
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