I contacted the forest service to see how they would be handling PMA permits this year due to the ranger stations being closed. Here is the response I got:

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The Forest Service office listed as the ‘pick-up’ pickup location will be mailing out the authorization sheets for group leaders to review, sign and bring with them along with their printed confirmation email when they enter the BWCA Wilderness.
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I'm not sure I ever provided my mailing address, so I'm guessing either they will reach out for that info, or will be emailing the authorization sheet. Anyway, I thought those of you planning on entering a PMA this summer would find that helpful.

(And of course this all depends on the BWCA actually being open!)

PMA first-timer...in pandemictimes, no less...

I am not sure I fully understand what you've written - would you mind elaborating?

you say: "The Forest Service office listed as the ‘pick-up’ pickup location will be mailing out the authorization sheets for group leaders to review, sign and bring with them along with their printed confirmation email when they enter the BWCA Wilderness."

This would imply that the FS is either sending these PMA forms out to everyone who has a BWCA permit, or that there's another step - calling the FS to let them know you want to get a PMA permit, and they mail it out?

Not trying to be obtuse, just want to understand... thank you!

sns: "This would imply that the FS is either sending these PMA forms out to everyone who has a BWCA permit, or that there's another step - calling the FS to let them know you want to get a PMA permit, and they mail it out?"

You still have to call the Ranger Office that is responsible for your PMA area. They will check the book and make sure the PMA you want is available. If so they will add the PMA number and zone number. For instance I have PMA #3 zone 3 one day, and PMA #3 zone 4 for several other days. They e-mailed my confirmation, but may mail yours as well. Just make sure and have PMA #' with zones for each date you want before you call. PMA Maps

MidwestFirecraft: "call the Ranger Office that is responsible for your PMA area. "

Got it!

Except - how do I know which office is responsible for each PMA?

Cheers

Select the PMA you want and enlarge. The Ranger Station is located on the bottom. PMA Ranger Stations

Perfect - many thanks!

MidwestFirecraft --

They emailed your PMA confirmation already? I haven't gotten anything, so wondering if I should call the ranger station.

Because of the ordeal I went through last year she e-mailed me confirmation on January 30th, the day I called.

Gotcha--I'll wait till I'm 2 weeks out then.

I hope you can make it this year!! (And maybe I'll see you in passing!)