SFNF News:

SANTA FE – The Santa Fe National Forest will implement a key change to the process of obtaining a Special Use Authorization.

Starting this year, the Santa Fe National Forest will require all proposals for outfitter and guide services for the year to be submitted no later than Sunday. Proposals received after that date will not be accepted for this calendar year. This date coincides with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish deadline for inclusion in the outfitter pool for state license tag drawings without penalty.

A Special Use Authorization is required when any use or activity on National Forest System lands charges an entry or participation fee and/or where the primary purpose is the sale of a good or service, regardless of whether it produces a profit. Examples of activities requiring a Special Use Authorization include hunting, hiking, skiing, and other outfitted uses, organized activities for groups or tours on national forest that charge a fee or generate income, and any type of sales of goods.

Proposals for Recreation events, such as family reunions, or one-time events located on only one ranger district of the forest are not subject to the February deadline. Contact the local Ranger District office for additional information on this type of authorization. 

This new process will help the Santa Fe National Forest bring quality services to its visitors in a more efficient way. If you have questions, contact Annie Apodaca, forest recreation program manager, at 505.438.5375, or any Santa Fe National Forest ranger district office. 

Application information is available online at https:////www.fs.fed.us/specialuses/special_app_process.shtml.