In case anyone is wondering about the process of reserving and receiving an EP 71 permit….Below is a question I sent the Superior Forest the other day via email. Their response is below - they responded the same day.

Question:

Hi, I’m looking for info on the BWCA EP71 - From Canada permit. Specifically, how do I pick this up if I’m in Canada before my trip?

I’m planning a trip for later this Summer. It’s a one way canoe trip starting in Atikokan, ON entering Quetico Park and exiting the BWCA near Ely, MN. I will enter Canada a few weeks prior to the trip and I won't be near any of the permit issuing stations or cooperators prior to heading into Canada. I carry a US passport. Is it possible to have the permit sent to me via email? Other options?
Please advise. Thanks.

Response:

Thank you for contacting the Superior National Forest. Yes, there is an exception to picking up your permit in-person on the entry date or one day prior, specifically for the FROM CANADA permit. Americas driving to Canada are allowed to pick up their permit in-person up to (14) days in advance of their entry date at a Forest Service office. In your case, I will approve your request to email the permit, since it sounds like you will be in Canada for a few weeks prior to the start date of your Quetico trip.

You will need to watch and share all three (3) parts of the User Education Leave No Trace video series with your group, and take the quiz over the phone in order to receive your permit via email. If your entry date is not until later this summer, wait to contact me via email just prior to departing the U.S. Please include this conversation along with your permit number and the best time to reach you. I will contact you to do the LNT quiz over the phone and email the permit after you pass the quiz.

whomever you spoke to deserves a raise and an atta boy for cusomer service