5/25/11 – We received some interesting information from the Forest Service today. It is the account of how many summer season permits were issued over the last 11 years. As you can see, use peaked in 2003 and has been in slow, but steady decline since then.
May 1-Sept 30 (includes all overnight use plus motorized day use for this period):
2010…… 32,671
2009…… 34,000
2008…… 34,681
2007…… 35,481
2006…… 35,528
2005…… 35,990
2004…… 38,886
2003…… 39,304
2002…… 37,238
2001…… 36,797
2000…… 35,390
The Forest Service attributes the decline to an aging population, natural phenomenon (fire, tent caterpillars, late ice-outs), confusion with the “lottery” that makes people think that permits are gone for the season and the recession.
While the decline in use of the BWCA Wilderness isn’t really good news for an outfitter, it is nice for the people who visit! Speaking of which, most dates are still open for entry into the wilderness from the entry points around Sawbill. You can check permit availability yourself online, or give us a call (218-663-7150) and we’ll check for you. – Bill