The U.S. Forest Service has done an about-face on the issue of photography on U.S. Forest Service lands throughout the nation. Previously this week, it was reported that the U.S. Forest Service would be charging up to $1,500 for permits to film or take photographs in federally designated wilderness areas or face penalties of up to $1,000.

According to Acting Wilderness Director, Liz Close, previously, the restrictions have been in place and that the agency s implementing the Wilderness Act of 1964 and are needed to preserve the country’s wilderness.

The proposed regulation would have affected 109,000,000 acres of federally designated wilderness, half of which is in the state of Alaska. The Forest Service has said that a permit would not be required unless sets are brought in or models used in the shoot or where the public is generally not permitted.

On Thursday, upon learning of the Forest Service’s photography policy, Senator Mark Begich released the following statement:

“These proposed rules are ridiculous. It’s deeply troubling that the USFS is proposing to make Alaskans pay a ‘photo fee’ in the Tongass or Chugach — it’s absurd,” said Begich. “The rule also appears to defy common sense, as the cost to issue complete and process paperwork permits would likely far outweigh the revenue generated. I will be contacting U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Vilsack and USFS Chief Tidwell to re-consider this unnecessary rule that tramples on First Amendment rights. The bottom line is that Forest Service policy should protect the First Amendment and allow Alaskans to hunt, fish, hike or photograph our national forests unhindered.”

Late Thursday night, U.S.F.S. Chief Tom Tidwell released a statement stating that the provisions would not include news gathering footage or that of documentaries. Tidwell also stated, “The proposal does not change the rules for visitors or recreational photographers. Generally, professional and amateur photographers will not need a permit unless they use models, actors or props; work in areas where the public is generally not allowed; or cause additional administrative costs.”

In short, Tidwell said, “The fact is, the directive pertains to commercial photography and filming only – if you’re there to gather news or take recreational photographs, no permit would be required.”

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