Smith River Applications Now On Internet

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Smith River permit applications for the 2002 float season are now available at all Fish, Wildlife and Parks office, as well as on the Internet.

"We’ve put them on the Internet along with FWP offices for convenience," says Joe O’Neill, FWP Smith River manager.

Applications must be postmarked on or before Feb. 15 for entry into a random drawing. Results will be mailed out by the middle of March. Refunds will be mailed by the end of March.

Besides all FWP offices, applications can be downloaded from the department’s web page at www.fwp.state.mt.us. However, e-mailing applications back to FWP will not work, as applications must have original signatures.

"Faxed or photocopied signatureswill also not be accepted," O’Neill says, "just like on the big game applications."

The application fee for Montana residents is $20, which may be paid by personal check, cashier’s check or money order. Cash may be sent at the sender’s risk.

For nonresidents, the cost is $40, which may be paid by cashier’s check or money order. Non-residents may not use personal checks. Of course, cash may be sent at the sender’s risk. Resident or nonresident, only one application per person is allowed.

Last year, 4,252 people applied for permits. That’s the second highest number since 1992, when permits were first required. However, low water last summer dropped the number of floaters to 2,262 – the lowest number since 1992. A complete review of last year’s activities is listed in the Smith River annual report, which is available at FWP’s Great Falls office. To receive a copy call (406) 454-5840.