Commercial Use Authorizes Guided Fishing and Sightseeing

Date: October 1, 2012
Contact: Commercial Services, 870/365-2702

The Buffalo National River is nationally known for its excellent fishing opportunities and scenic beauty. Fishing is probably the oldest recreational use of the river and guided fishing trips along the Buffalo River date back to the 1920s. Guided fishing trips may be just a single day on the river or customized to include several nights of camping complete with riverside cookouts. Experienced guides entertain their fishing clients with Ozark legends and folklore, and undoubtedly, a few wild fish stories. Other tourists may hire a guide just for a sightseeing tour of the river.

Beginning January 1, 2013, Buffalo National River will authorize guided fishing services and guided sightseeing tours through a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA). A CUA is a short-term permit that allows limited commercial services to be conducted within the park. In the past, guided visitor services on the river were only authorized under long-term concession contracts.

Anyone interested in obtaining a CUA for guided fishing and/or guided sightseeing at Buffalo National River, must submit a CUA Application and a $100 non-refundable application fee to the Buffalo National River Commercial Services office. Applications will be accepted from October 1 through November 15, 2012. If the application is approved, the permit will be effective for one year beginning January 1, 2013.

In addition to attending a park-sponsored training day and submitting periodic activity reports, CUA holders are required to submit an annual gross receipts report. All forms, instructions, and guidelines are available on the park website at: http://www.nps.gov/buff/parkmgmt/businesswithpark.htm

Kevin Cheri, Superintendent of Buffalo National River, emphasizes the need to balance commercial services with responsible park management. "National parks can offer some very unique and viable business opportunities for entrepreneurs," he said. "The Commercial Use Authorization is a fairly simple and straight forward method for permitting appropriate business activity in the park. The guidelines are put in place to protect park resources and visitors."

Besides Guided Fishing and Guided Sightseeing tours, Buffalo National River also offers CUAs for Guided Photography, Hiking, Camping and Rappelling. To learn more about Commercial Use Authorizations call the Buffalo National River Commercial Services office at 870-365-2702.