Timber companies charging fees

Hunters will have to pay fees this fall for entering some private timber company lands.

Potlatch Corp., since April, has sold 2,300 permits for recreational access to more than 600,000 acres of company-owned property in the St. Joe and Clearwater regions. Fees for the required annual vehicle pass will be based on recreational users’ vehicle type, ranging from $100 for a motor home to $25 for a motorcycle or ATV.

“Purchase permits and company maps online at www.potlatchcorp.com. Problems? (866) 437-7730.

Inland Empire Paper Co., has increased access fees for the first time since it began selling permits six years ago for recreational access to its 115,000 acres of forestland in Washington and Idaho. Families will pay $65 this year for an annual pass, individuals pay $40. Infrequent users can buy a one-day permit for $10.

“Purchase permits at White’s Outdoor in Spokane, Hico convenience store in Rathdrum, Hauser Market and Smoke Shop in Hauser Lake and Levis Minit Market in Deer Park. Maps snowing entry points come with the permits. Dennis Parent 924-1911

Forest Capital Partners, which controls 285,000 acres in northeastern Washington formerly owned by Boise-Cascade, currently does not charge for entry to its lands.

“The company’s large land ownership map is on display in the office in Colville, 162 S. Wynne St.