KNF Food Storage Order.pdf

This document is a Food Storage and Sanitation Special Order issued by the Kootenai National Forest Forest Supervisor on June 10, 2011. The order establishes mandatory restrictions for all Forest Service lands in the Kootenai National Forest, specifically targeting minimizing adverse interactions between humans, bears, and wildlife while promoting visitor safety. Key prohibited acts include improperly possessing or storing food, refuse, or other attractants; improper camping; and improperly possessing, storing, or transporting animals or animal parts from March 1 through December 1 annually.

The order requires that human, pet, and livestock food be acceptably possessed or stored in bear-resistant manners, camping areas be established at least 1/2 mile from known animal carcasses, and any harvested animal carcass be acceptably possessed or stored when near camping areas. Violations can result in fines up to $5,000 for individuals or $10,000 for organizations, and potential imprisonment. The document includes detailed definitions of terms like "food, refuse and other attractants", "animal carcass", and "acceptably stored", and provides specific exemptions for permit holders and federal/state officers conducting research or management activities.