A successful undercover operation conducted by Forest Service law enforcement officers resulted in a citation and pending charges against a snowmobile outfitter operating without a permit, according to an agency statement.
The alleged illegal activity occurred on the Aspen-Sopris, Eagle-Holy Cross and Rifle ranger districts.
Colorado Powersports Rentals posted advertisements for guided trips on snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles on the forest and delivered equipment rentals directly onto the forest, the agency statement says.
With few exceptions, all uses on national forest lands involving extended use, improvements, conducting business activity or the use of resources are designated “special uses” and must be authorized by the district ranger responsible for the area where the use is anticipated.
Most guided recreational activities are available through existing permit holders and/or on private, state or other federal lands.
Permitted guided snowmobiling is offered in a wide variety of locations on every district of the White River National Forest.
A list of permitted guides and outfitters on the forest can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/detail/whiteriver/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5281134. Complete information regarding special uses and the permitting process can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/main/whiteriver/passes-permits/event-commercial.
