Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between the Forest Service, National Parks, and State Parks?
The Forest Service is part of the US Department of Agriculture and manages the national forests and grasslands, forestry research and cooperation with forest managers on state and private lands. >> 
2. When and why was the Forest Service established?
In 1905 Congress established the Forest Service to provide quality water and timber for the Nation's benefit. Over the years, the public has expanded the list of what they want from national forest and grasslands. >>
3. Can I camp anywhere I want to on National Forests?
You can generally camp anywhere on National Forests, unless the area is posted otherwise. >>
4. Do I need to make a reservation to camp on National Forests in Washington and Oregon ?
Many campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. For any Forest Service campground reservation, contact the National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS)at least five days before your planned arrival. Call 1-877-444-6777(toll-free), or visit the Web site at http://www.ReserveUSA.gov for prices and availability. >>
5. Do you have a list of campgrounds we can reserve?
Contact the Forest Service office in your destination for current information. The National Recreation Reservation Service, a one-stop reservation service for the USDA Forest Service outdoor recreation facilities and activities, provides a list of campgrounds, locations and amenities available. >>
6. How do I make reservations to stay in Forest Service cabins or lookout towers?
Forest Service lodging sources include unique Cabin and Lookout Tower rentals. There is a list of locations that offer cabin and lookout tower rentals see http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/reservations. >>
7. Can I bring my dog to the Forest ? Can I have my dog off leash?
In many Wilderness Areas, developed campgrounds, picnic areas and day use areas, dogs are required to be on a leash. >> 
8. Where can I ride and/or camp with my horse on National Forests?
Horses are allowed anywhere on National Forests unless and area is posted otherwise. >>
9. Where can I drive my Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV)? Are there maps available of the trails?
If your Off Highway Vehicle is licensed to operate on public roads or highways , then it can operation on National Forest system roads open to highway vehicles. >>
10. Where can I get information on hunting?
Each state's game and fish agency handles hunting seasons, bag limits, and licenses are handled by each state's game and fish agency. >>
11. What are special-use authorizations?
A special-use authorization is a legal document such as a permit, lease, or easement, which allows the permittee occupancy, use, rights, or privileges on National Forest system land. >>
12. Can I collect rocks, pinecones, pine boughs, logs, mushrooms, etc., from the forest?
You must have a permit to remove any minerals or wood products from the National Forest. To obtain one of these permits, check with your nearest National Forest Service office. >>
13. Do I need a Wilderness permit?
You do not need a Wilderness permit in the Pasayten or Lake Chelan Wilderness areas. However, you are required to register at the trailheads. >>
14. If I have an emergency on the National Forest, who should I contact?
If you have an emergency on the National Forest, call 911 and they will dispatch the nearest help. >>
15. What is a closure?
A closure is a restriction put on certain activities or public use of a defined area on the Forest. >>
16. What are fire restrictions and what do they mean to me?
Fire restrictions are issued by the Forest Supervisor after coordinating with District Rangers and Fire Management Officers on local conditions. >>
17. I'm interested in becoming a firefighter. How can I get more information?
To become a wildland firefighter, you must be between the 18 and 35 years old and pass a physical fitness test. >>
18. How can I protect my home from wildland fires?
Use fire resistant building material. The roof and exterior of homes should be constructed of non-combustible or fire resistant materials such as fire resistant roofing materials, tile, slate, sheet iron, aluminum, brick, or stone. >>
19. What is the outlook for future wildfires?
For information on wildfire forecasts, and lots of other information on wildfires, please visit the National Interagency Coordination Center Web site at http://www.nifc.gov/information.html. >>
20. How do I sell products and services to the Forest Service?
If you sell a product or service, the best thing to do is get into the Federal Supply Service (FSS) Program through the General Services Administration (GSA). The GSA is the business manager and purchasing agent for the federal government, and has a FSS contractor guide at http://apps.fss.gsa.gov/contractorguide/ . >>
21. Can I use paintball guns on the Okanogan National Forest?
Yes you can, but please observe the following restrictions:>>
|
