Public has less than two weeks to comment on BWCAW permit changes
There are fewer than two weeks remaining for the public to comment on proposed changes to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness cancellation policy, designed to return unused permits to the reservation system more quickly.
The changes, first announced June 22, would modify refund amounts for canceled reservations based on how far in advance a permit holder cancels.
Under the proposal, permit holders who cancel at least 28 days before their entry date would receive a 50% refund of their reservation deposit. Those who cancel between three and 27 days before their entry date would receive a 25% refund, while those who cancel fewer than three days before their entry date would not receive a refund.
Permits for entry into the Boundary Waters are limited between May 1 and Sept. 30, with all summer permits made available to the public each January.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, nearly 40% of January permit reservations were never used, reducing opportunities for others to secure permits during the season.
The public comment period closes July 22. Comments may be submitted by email, mail or in person at any Superior National Forest office.
If approved, the changes would take effect in January 2027 and apply to permits for the 2027 summer season.
WTIP spoke with Cathy Quinn, assistant wilderness program manager for the Superior National Forest, about the proposed changes. The audio of that conversation is available below.
Josh Hinke July 11, 2026
