The Virginia Department Of Forestry - Shaping Virginia's Forests
Recreational Activities in Virginia’s State Forests Will Require A State Forest Use Permit
The State Forest Use Permit is required for anyone 16 years and older who hunts, fishes, traps, rides mountain bikes or horses in one of Virginia’s 19 State Forests. Anyone walking, hiking or canoeing will not need the Use Permit. This law goes into effect Wednesday, July 1st.
The new Use Permit replaces the state forest license that used to be required of those hunting or trapping on the state forests. Obtaining a Use Permit is a new requirement for those who fish or ride horses or mountain bikes in the state forests. The State Forest Use Permit is valid for all five activities. This State Forest Use Permit does not apply to our national forests, national parks, state parks or state-managed wildlife management areas.
The Use Permit, which costs $15 annually, is good for one year following its purchase. All funds generated by the Use Permit will go toward enhancing recreational opportunities on the State Forests.
Since the founding of Virginia’s first state forest (Prince Edward – Gallion State Forest) in 1919, the state forests have been self-supporting entities – meaning they receive no tax dollars. Now, with 19 state forests in the system and increased demand for recreational use by Virginia’s citizens, the system cannot rely solely on the sale of timber on just the three largest forests to provide enough funding to operate, maintain and improve the entire system of 19 state forests – hence the need for the new Use Permit.
The State Forest Use Permit is available online or at authorized retailers who sell the Virginia state hunting license.
New and Noteworthy
State Forest Use Permit. The State Forest Use Permit is required for anyone 16 years and older who hunts, fishes, traps, rides mountain bikes or horses in one of Virginia’s 19 State Forests. Anyone walking, hiking or canoeing will not need the Use Permit. The State Forest Use Permit is available online or at authorized retailers who sell the Virginia state hunting license.
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Logger Incentive Program
Loggers may be eligible for a $2,000 payment per application that meets the program requirements.
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The Forest Legacy Program strives to preserve forest land in Virginia. Read more about the Forest Legacy Program.
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Last modified: Thursday, 02-Jul-2009 10:07:44 EDT