USFS reviews recreation residence permits

The Forest Service is pondering whether to renew special use permits for 108 recreation residences on public land along the Metolius River for another 20 years.

The current permits expire December 31, 2008.

Deschutes Forest Supervisor Leslie Weldon is seeking public comment on the issue. In addition, she wants to hear from people who want to become more involved in this review.

“If public comment does not reveal issues, the project will proceed as proposed for re-issuance of recreational residence special use permits,” Weldon stated. “Your comments will be most useful if received on or before Friday, August 8, 2006.”

Many changes in public policy have occurred since the current permits were issued, she explained. Stricter guidelines come from the forest plan, the National Environmental Protection Act, the National Historic Preservation Act and state laws regulating water rights

Comments may be mailed to Forest Supervisor, Deschutes National Forest, Attn.: Jeff Sims, Project Leader Recreation Residence Permit Re-issuance, 1001 S.W. Emkay Dr., Bend OR 97702. Comments may also be submitted by e-mail to [email protected] Questions may be presented to Sims, the Land and Special Uses staff forester with the Sisters Ranger District, at 549-7706.

Current Forest Service policy recognizes recreation residences as a valid use of national forest lands. The Forest Service’s “proposed action” is to continue this use. However, some critics have opposed this use of public lands. In response to this opposition, permit holders have organized local, state, and national organizations to represent their interests to the Forest Service.

Some of the 108 Metolius River recreation residences date back to the early 1900s and have remained in the same family for many years. Another 176 residences are located within the Deschutes National Forest at Elk Lake, Crescent Lake, Odell Lake, and Paulina Lake. Nationally, there are more than 5,000 recreation residences in 24 states.

In 1915, when the Forest Service first announced opportunities for recreation residences along the Metolius River, more than 100 applications were received. Lots were surveyed and the first residences were constructed the following year. Annual permit fees first ranged from $5 to $15 but have since increased to several thousand dollars a year.

In addition, permit holders must pay property taxes to the county for structures on the land.