Signed: Robert J. DeGross, Superintendent, March 3rd, 2022. Signature on file.
A. INTRODUCTION
1. Superintendent’s Compendium Described
The Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the park. The Superintendent’s Compendium does not repeat regulations found in 36 CFR and other United States Code and CFR Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.
The regulations contained in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, are the basic mechanism used by the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park and to protect visitors and property within the park. Parts 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all areas of the National Park system, and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each of these Parts has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Within some of these Part 1-7 sections and subsections, the Superintendent is granted discretionary authority to develop local rules to be responsive to the needs of a specific park resource or activity, park plan, program, and/or special needs of the general public.
As an example, 36 CFR 1.5(a) Closures and Public Use Limits provides the Superintendent certain discretion in allowing or disallowing certain activities. The authority granted by the Section, however, requires the Superintendent to comply with the Administrative Procedures Act (6 USC Section 551), which requires public notice on actions with major impact on visitor use patterns, park resources or those that are highly controversial in nature.
Another example is 36 CFR 1.6 Permits, which allows the Superintendent to require a permit for certain uses and activities in the park. This Section, however, requires that a list of activities needing a permit (and a fee schedule for the various types of permits) be maintained by the park.
A final example is 36 CFR 2.1(c) (1) Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources, which provides the Superintendent the authority to designate certain fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells which may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption. This activity can occur, however, only if a written determination shows that the allowed activity does not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of a plant species, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.
This Compendium should be used in conjunction with Title 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, to more fully understand the regulations governing the use and enjoyment of all the areas of the national Park System.
A copy of Title 36, CFR, can be purchased from the U.S. Government Printing Office at: www.gpo.gov
OR
Superintendent of Documents
P.O. Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
The CFR is also available on the Internet at: www.ecfr.gov
2. Laws and Policies Allowing the Superintendent to Develop This Compendium
The National Park Service (NPS) is granted broad statutory authority under Title 54 United States Code (U.S.C.) §100101(a) (formerly 16 U.S.C. 1a-1, “Organic Act”) to “….regulate the use of the National Park System by means and measures that conform to the fundamental purpose of the System units, which purpose is to conserve the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wild life in the System units and to provide for the enjoyment of the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wild life in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” In addition, Title 54 U.S.C. §100751(a) allows the NPS, through the Secretary of the Interior, to “prescribe such regulations as the Secretary considers necessary or proper for the use and management of System units.”
In 1970, Congress amended the NPS Organic Act to clarify its intentions as to the overall mission of the NPS. Through the General Authorities Act of 1970, Congress brought all areas administered by the NPS into one National Park System and directed the NPS to manage all areas under its administration consistent with the Organic Act of 1916.In 1978, Congress amended the General Authorities Act of 1970 and reasserted System-wide the high standard of protection defined in the original Organic Act by stating “Congress further reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various areas of the National Park System, as defined by Section 1 of this Title, shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by Section 1 of this Title, to the common benefit of all people of the United States.”
In addition to the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is guided by established NPS policy as found in the NPS Management Policies (2006). The Superintendent is also guided by more specific policies promulgated by the Director, National Park Service, in the form of Director’s Orders. As stated in the Management Policies, the primary responsibility of the NPS is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources while providing for the enjoyment of these resources by visitor and other users, as long as use does not impair specific park resources or overall visitor experience. The appropriateness of any particular visitor use or recreational experience is resource-based and will vary from park to park; therefore, a use or activity that is appropriate in one park area may not be appropriate in another. The Superintendent is directed to analyze overall park use and determine if any particular use is appropriate. Where conflict arises between use and resource protection, where the Superintendent has a reasonable basis to believe a resource is or would become impaired, then that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.
3. Consistency of This Compendium with Applicable Federal Law and Requirements
The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866. In addition, this Compendium will not have a significant economic effect on a number of small entities nor impose a significant cost on any local, state or tribal government or private organization, and therefore does not fall under the requirements of either the Regulatory Flexibility Act or the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.
The actions and requirements described in this Compendium are found to be categorically excluded from further compliance with the procedural requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in Department of the Interior (DOI) Guidelines 516 DM 6 and as such, an Environmental Assessment will not be prepared.
4. Development of the Requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium
Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
Will the use or activity damage the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
Will the use or activity disturb or be in conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection actions and values?
Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?
5. Applicability of the Compendium
The rules contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise present on federally owned lands, including submerged lands, and waters administered by the NPS within the legislative boundaries of the park. This includes all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including all navigable waters.
6. Enforcement of Compendium Requirements
NPS Law Enforcement Park Rangers enforce the requirements of the United State Code, 36 CFR, and this Superintendent’s Compendium.
7. Penalties for Not Adhering to the Compendium Requirements
A person who violates any provision of the regulations found in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, or provisions of this Compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 U.S.C. 3559), or both, and shall be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings. You may receive a list of fines associated with any particular provision by contacting the Chief Ranger at the park address found below.
Chief of Visitor and Resource Protection
Voyageurs National Park
360 Highway 11 East
International Falls, MN 56649
8. Comments on the Compendium
The Compendium is reviewed annually and revised as necessary. The park welcomes comments about its programs and activities at any time.
Written comments on the Compendium may be submitted to:
Superintendent
Voyageurs National Park
360 Highway 11 East
International Falls, MN 56649
9. Effective Date of the Superintendent’s Compendium
The Superintendent’s Compendium is effective on the approval date listed on the first page of this document and remains in effect until revised for a period up to one year.
10. Additional Information
Some of the terms used in this Compendium may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR 1.4 Definitions.
11. Availability
Copies of the Compendium are available at:
Voyageurs National Park Headquarters
360 Highway 11 East
International Falls, MN 56649
In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 54 U.S.C. §100751, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Voyageurs National Park. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.
NOTE: NEPA compliance is not separately required for the discretionary actions listed herein. The authority to make the various determinations under this title is provided for in 36 CFR, which has undergone NEPA compliance. However, NEPA compliance may be required in the application of these determinations. (i.e., issuing a research permit or other permit that has “potential environmental effects”.)
I. 36 CFR §1.4 DefinitionsArtificial Bait: Lures and bait other than live or organic baits.
Backcountry Campsites: All designated campsites with a “B” or “H” designator.
Front country Campsites: Any campsite accessible by private watercraft.
Interior Lakes: All lakes, ponds, streams, creeks, or other bodies of water within the boundary of Voyageurs National Park other than Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Sand Point Lakes.
Houseboat: Registered vessels that contain sleeping facilities, cooking and food storage facilities, and a no-discharge toilet.
Ice road: The marked and/or plowed ice-covered surface of any frozen lake within Voyageurs National Park maintained and intended for use by motor vehicles weighing less than 7,000 pounds.Overnight: The hours from sunset to sunrise, or any portion thereof.
Snowmobile Trail: The marked routes and portages within Voyageurs National Park designated for use by snowmobile operators.
Unmanned Aircraft (UA): A device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
Watercraft: Any vessel, boat, canoe, kayak, tube, or other device used for the purposes of flotation of locomotion on or in a body of water.
Visiting hours for certain facilities and roads have been established for Voyageurs National Park. All current designations are posted on the park’s website (www.nps.gov/voya).
Public Use Limits:
Aquatic Invasive Species:
Any watercraft, trailer, or other item which has been on or within the waters of Rainy Lake must be decontaminated prior to being launched, used, or operated in any other park waters.
Any aircraft that has operated on the liquid water surface of Rainy Lake must be decontaminated prior to operating on the liquid water surface of any other park waters open to aircraft. Portages:
Vessels traveling across the Kettle Falls Portage from the Rainy Lake Basin to the Namakan Lake Basin must be decontaminated by park-approved personnel prior to the completion of the portage.
Vessels may only use the Gold Portage to travel from Kabetogama Lake to Rainy Lake. Portages from Rainy Lake to Kabetogama Lake are prohibited.
Acceptable decontamination procedures are as follows:
All visible aquatic plants and invasive species are removed from any vessel, aircraft, or other item which has been on or within contaminated waters, and;
All livewells, bilge tanks, other tanks, or containers containing contaminated water are drained in the contaminated watershed, and;
All surfaces of the vessel, aircraft, or items that have been in contact with the contaminated water are sprayed or rinsed with 120° water for at least 2 minutes or 140° water for at least 10 seconds, or;
All surfaces of the vessel, aircraft, or item that have been in contact with contaminated water are drained and dry for at least 5 days prior to use in any non-contaminated waters.
(In 2021 zebra mussel veligers were discovered in Black Bay of Rainy Lake and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources declared Rainy Lake to be infested by zebra mussels. To prevent the spread of zebra mussels into other park lakes where they may cause severe ecological and economic harm, the public use limits are required.)
Climbing, rappelling, jumping or other similar activities are not permitted from any man-made structures.
(This closure is established to provide for visitor safety and to avoid conflict with other user groups and is the minimum necessary to achieve such results).
The open, liquid water surfaces, of all interior lakes are closed to the landing of aircraft.
The frozen waters within the park are closed to the landing of aircraft except for:
Rainy Lake
Kabetogama Lake
Namakan Lake
Sand Point Lake
Locator Lake
War Club Lake
Quill Lake
Loiten Lake
Mukooda Lake
Little Trout Lake
Shoepack Lake
(These closures are implemented to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species and fish diseases into waters free of these species and fish diseases. Water sampling efforts on Rainy and Namakan Lakes during 2006 revealed the presence of spiny water flea, and water sampling in 2021 revealed the presence of zebra mussel larvae in Rainy Lake. The Minnesota DNR has designated Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Sand Point lakes as infested with spiny water flea and Rainy Lake as infested with zebra mussel. The impacts of spiny water flea and zebra mussel can be devastating to aquatic organisms as these aquatic invasive species compete with native zooplankton and minnows. This competition can disrupt the food chain at its base with potentially significant effects farther up the chain.Research has shown that physical characteristics of the spiny water flea allow it to cling to surfaces of boats or maintain viable eggs out of water for up to 12 hours, and zebra mussels can remain viable on boats for multiple days. The interior lakes are currently managed as water bodies that are not infested with spiny water flea or zebra mussel. This restriction is established under Minnesota state statute corresponding to the management of activities on waters declared to be infested by the Minnesota DNR. An administrative determination to implement this restriction was completed and adopted by the Park Superintendent on June 19, 2007).
Unmanned Aircraft:
Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Voyageurs National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.The Superintendent has determined that unmanaged or unrestricted recreational use of UAs within Voyageurs National Park will conflict with, or impact, a variety of park uses including visitor experience. (Until the NPS can determine whether specific uses of unmanned aircraft are appropriate and will not cause unacceptable impacts on park resources and values, Voyageurs National Park is closed to the use of these devices. The use of unmanned aircraft within the boundaries of Voyageurs National Park has the potential to harm visitors, disturb wildlife, impact view sheds, cause excessive noise, and interfere with other visitors' enjoyment of the area. This closure is being implemented as an interim measure while this new use can be properly evaluated. A less restrictive approach is not appropriate at this time due to the impacts the devices could potentially present to visitor safety, park values, and to park resources. The interim closure will safeguard these values while the NPS considers how to address this new use on a long-term basis).
(a)(2) The following areas have been designated for a specific use or activity, under the conditions and/or restrictions as noted:
Masks
When the COVID-19 Community Level is LOW or MEDIUM in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals are not required to wear masks. When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, all individuals over the age of two must wear masks, regardless of vaccination status, in all common areas and shared workspaces in buildings owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by the National Park Service, including, but not limited to, park visitor centers, administrative offices, lodges, gift shops and restaurants. When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in one or more, but not all, of the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, the superintendent will determine whether individuals are required to wear masks. The requirement, if any, will apply to all facilities within the park. Masks must cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly around the nose and chin with no large gaps around the sides of the face. Masks not designed to be protective, masks with ventilation valves, and face shields do not meet the requirement. Regardless of the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals may wear masks if they choose to do so. Where a state, local, tribal, or territorial government where the park is located imposes more protective mask-wearing requirements than those indicated by the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals must follow those more protective requirements within the park. More protective state, local, tribal, or territorial mask-wearing requirements are hereby adopted as federal requirements in all units of the National Park System located within that state, locality, area subject to a federally recognized Indian tribe’s regulatory jurisdiction, or territory, regardless of a particular park’s jurisdictional status. Additionally, all individuals must wear masks in or on public transportation conveyances and transportation hubs/facilities, to the extent required by current orders or directives issued by the CDC, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), or other federal agencies with jurisdiction over those conveyances or areas. As of March 4, 2022, CDC and TSA orders or directives require all individuals regardless of vaccination status to wear masks in indoor areas of all forms of public transportation conveyances, including busses, trains, and boats/ferries, and in the indoor premises of transportation hubs/facilities. Individuals are not required to wear masks while outdoors on conveyances or while outdoors on the premises of transportation hubs/facilities.
Filming
The following types of filming activities may occur in areas open to the public without a permit and without advance notice to the NPS:
Outdoor filming activities outside of areas managed as wilderness involving five persons or less and equipment that will be carried at all times, except for small tripods used to hold cameras.
The organizer of any other type of filming activity must provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based upon the information provided, the Superintendent may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if necessary to:
maintain public health and safety;
protect environmental or scenic values;
protect natural or cultural resources;
allow for equitable allocation and use of facilities; or
avoid conflict among visitor use activities.
If the Superintendent determines that the terms and conditions of a permit could not mitigate the concerns identified above in an acceptable manner, the Superintendent may deny a filming request without issuing a permit. The Superintendent will provide the basis for denial in writing upon request. The NPS will consider requests and process permit applications in a timely manner. Processing times will vary depending on the complexity of the proposed activity. If the organizer provides the required 10-day advance notice to the NPS and has not received a written response from the NPS that a permit is required prior to the first day of production, the proposed filming activities may occur without a permit. The following are prohibited: (1) Engaging in a filming activity without providing advance notice to the Superintendent when required. (2) Engaging in a filming activity without a permit if the activity takes place in areas managed as wilderness or if the Superintendent has notified the organizer in writing that a permit is required. (3) Violating a term and condition of a permit issued under this action. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued under to this action may also result in the suspension and revocation of the permit by the Superintendent.(This compendium designation and/or restrictions on activities within park areas when necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety; protection of environmental or scenic values; protection of natural or cultural resources; aid to scientific research; implementation of management responsibilities; equitable allocation and use of facilities; or the avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities.)
Swimming and Wading
Swimming or wading is prohibited at the docks and vessel mooring basins within the Park's developed areas listed below:
Rainy Lake Visitor Center
Kabetogama Visitor Center
Ash River Visitor Center
Kettle Falls
Swimming from a vessel which is underway is prohibited, except in circumstances where a capable operator is on board and all propulsion machinery is off and/or sails are furled.
All water immediately associated with the shoreline of campsites, houseboat sites and day use sites are designated as swimming beaches. It is understood that these sites are accessible by vessel and designated for such use, creating a restricted passage. Hence, operating a vessel in excess of a flat wake speed is prohibited (36 CFR 3.8(b)(5))
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail
The trail is designated for pedestrian and human-powered modes of travel, to include:
Bicycles
Roller skates, skateboarding, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices
During conditions of snow and ice, the trail is groomed and tracked in a manner to allow traditional cross-country skiing on one side, while the other side is left ungroomed to allow for snowshoeing, skiing, and fat-tire biking
All forms of motorized conveyance are prohibited (Exception: See Electric Bike description on pg. 26)
(This compendium designation and/or restriction are to provide for recreational uses consistent with adjoining recreational paths).
II. 36 CFR §1.6 – ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT
(f) The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the superintendent is required.
Permitting information can be obtained by contacting Park Headquarters at:
360 Highway 11 East
International Falls, MN 56649
Or
By phone: 218-283-6600
Or
By visiting: www.nps.gov/voya/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.htm
§1.5(a) Construction or maintenance of ice roads more than 300’ long and/or further than 300’ from the plowed edge of the NPS ice roads
Travel by dog sled/dog team on winter portages, park-maintained snowmobile trails, park maintained ice roads, and any landmass within park boundaries.
Vehicle travel on the Mukooda Lake winter portage
Disturbances to shorelines, docks, and wetlands
§2.4(d) Carry or possess a weapon, trap, or net (excluding legal firearms)
§2.5(a) Specimen collection (take plant, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals)
§2.12 Audio Disturbances:
(a)(2) Operating a power saw in developed areas
(a)(3) Operating any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine, in non-developed areas
(a)(4) Operation of a public-address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51
§2.17 Aircraft & Air Delivery:
(a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means
(c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft
§2.19 Winter Activities:
Vehicle use on winter portages (park lands) to access frozen lake surfaces in or outside the park. (Winter season dates may vary due to ice, road, and weather conditions)
Retrieval of equipment that has fallen through the frozen lake surface.
§2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money goods or services (Pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit issued under §2.50, §2.51 or §2.52)
§2.38 Explosives:
Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents
Use or possess fireworks
§2.50(a) Conduct a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, tournament, and similar events
§2.51(a) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and other public expressions of views by groups of more than 25 people.
(These locations are described later in section 2.51. A map showing designated areas for public assemblies is available from the Office of the Superintendent.)
§2.52(c) Sale or distribution of printed matter that is not solely commercial advertising
(These locations are described later in section 2.52. A map showing designated areas for sale or distribution of printed matter is available from the Office of the Superintendent).
§2.60(b) Livestock use
§2.61(a) Residing on federal lands
§2.62 Memorialization:
Erection of monuments (requires approval from regional director)
(b) Scattering ashes from human cremation
§3.3 Use of a vessel:
Permits are required for the overnight mooring of a vessel at all docks in the following areas:
Rainy Lake Visitor Center
Little American Island
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center
Ash River Visitor Center
Kings Cabin
(Overnight mooring special use permits at the above-mentioned locations will be considered on a case by case basis under the criteria established in the general regulations under Section 1.6a to ensure adequate protection of resources, mooring infrastructure, and separation from adjoining visitor use sites).
§4.11(a) Exceeding of established vehicle load, weight and size limits
§5.1 Advertisements (display, posting or distribution)
§5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States or must be pursuant to special regulations).
§5.5 Photography:
Still photography of vehicles, or other articles of commerce or models for the purpose of commercial advertising
§5.6(c) Use of commercial vehicles on park area roads
(The superintendent shall issue a permit to access private lands within or adjacent to the park when access is otherwise not available).
§5.7 Construction of buildings, facilities, trails, roads, boat docks, path, structure, etc.
§6.9(a) Operation of a solid waste disposal site
III. GENERAL REGULATIONS
36 CFR §2.1 – PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
(a)(4) Dead wood on the ground may be collected for use as fuel for campfires within the park in the following areas:
All areas (except for individuals under a use and occupancy reservation in the park) may collect dead and down wood in sufficient quantities for their use as heating fuel. Such wood cannot be removed from the park.
(c)(1), (c)(2) The following fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption, in accordance with the noted size, quantity, collection sites and/or use or consumption restrictions:
Strawberries
Chokecherries
Rose Hips
Blackberries
Raspberries
Blueberries
Cranberries
Mushrooms
Wild Rice
Collection of the edible plant species described above is limited to one gallon per person per day.
(The collection of these edible plant species is allowed as they are fairly resilient plants that will produce their fruits/foods annually and/or regenerate following growing seasons).
36 CFR §2.2 - WILDLIFE PROTECTION
(d) The transporting of lawfully taken wildlife through the park is permitted under the following conditions and procedures:
The carcass must be tagged and/or possessed in accordance with applicable state and federal law.
A permit is required to transport lawfully taken wildlife across parklands or waters
Written permission from the landowner to hunt or trap on his or her property is required for each permit prior to the permit being issued to anyone except the landowner of record and his or her immediate family
A permit is not required for possession or transportation of legally taken wildlife in the following areas:
South and west of Black Bay and transported across park lands at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center
King Williams Narrows between Sand Point and Crane Lakes
Ash River Trail for a distance of .5 miles north along NPS 1 (commonly referred to as the Meadwood Road)
Moose River Grade
(e) The following areas are closed to the viewing of wildlife with the use of an artificial light:
All of the park
36 CFR §2.3 – FISHING
(a) The following State fishing laws and/or regulations, as noted, do not apply in the listed
areas:
Fish, as defined under Section 1.4, does not include mussels (clams), crayfish, frogs, and turtles
(State law permitting the taking of mussels (clams), crayfish, frogs, and turtle species conflicts with federal law and is not assimilated as a permitted activity within the park).
(d)(2) Possession or use of live or dead minnows or other bait fish, amphibian, non-preserved fish eggs or roe is permitted in the following fresh water areas:
The waters and adjacent shorelines of Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Sand Point Lakes are designated for possessing or using bait for fishing
Bait maybe possessed, but not used, on the frozen surface of Mukooda Lake for transportation purposes when traveling non-stop on the most direct route
With the exception of transporting bait on Mukooda Lake, only artificial bait is permitted on interior lakes
36 CFR §2.4 – WEAPONS, TRAPS, AND NETS
(a)(2)(i) Weapons (excluding legal firearms), traps, or nets may only be carried, possessed or used at the following designated times and locations:
Nets and spears may be possessed for non‑commercial use within the park in accordance with State law.
36 CFR §2.10 – CAMPING and FOOD STORAGE
(a) The sites and areas listed below have been designated for camping activities. A permit system has been established for camping activities, and conditions for camping activities are in effect as noted:
Permits:
All overnight use requires a camping permit from www.recreation.gov except:
use and occupancy residents on their leased land
private landowners on their private lands
concession users staying in concession facilities
One permit is required for each houseboat that uses the park overnight
One permit is required for each group of associated campers using the same site
Permits must be issued in the name of a person in the actual camping party
Transferring or selling a camping permit is prohibited
Camping permits must be physically present and displayed at the campsite
When a reservation has been made for a tent campsite, failure to physically occupy the site within 24 hours of the reservation start time voids the reservation
Designated Sites or Areas:
Tent camping use is allowed at designated campsites
Houseboat overnight use is allowed at designated houseboat sites and at undesignated sites
Designated and undesignated houseboat sites are used on a first-come, first-serve basis
Houseboats camping at an undesignated site are prohibited from mooring within 200 yards of the permanent NPS metal campfire ring of any designated campsite or houseboat site, any sign designating a trailhead, structure, or day use site or any occupied undesignated site
All overnight use is prohibited at:
Designated day use sites, picnic areas, public docks, trailheads, parking areas, boat launch sites and structures
On National Park Service land bordering the Black Bay Wildlife Management Area during Minnesota waterfowl hunting season
Within 1/4 mile of the Park's developed areas, including the parking lots, roads and picnic areas at the Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, and Ash River visitor centers, Kettle Falls and on lands under a use and occupancy reservation without the tenant’s permission
The southeast edge of Cherry Nose Island. (Cherry Nose Island is located southwest of Cemetery Island on Kabetogama Lake)
At Sweet Nose Island, and within 200 feet of the “no camping” signs at Williams Island, Sprague’s Point and Woodenfrog Islands
(An April 11, 2007 internal staff review of resources and current camping practices determined that:
The level of camping at these undesignated sites has been observed at a significant level to create harm to the resources and/or the overlying protective soils and vegetation
Resources at these sites were deemed to offer significant value requiring special protection
The NPS documented resource impacts at these sites from undesignated camping, and the level of impact was identified as moderate or severe
Overnight is defined to be from sunset to sunrise, or any portion thereof.
Camping means the erecting of a tent or shelter of natural or synthetic material, preparing a sleeping bag or other bedding material for use, parking of a motor vehicle, motor home or trailer, or mooring of a vessel for the apparent purpose of overnight occupancy).
Tent camping use is allowed at designated campsites
Houseboat overnight use is allowed at designated houseboat sites and at undesignated sites
Designated and undesignated houseboat sites are used on a first-come, first-serve basis
Houseboats camping at an undesignated site are prohibited from mooring within 200 yards of the permanent NPS metal campfire ring of any designated campsite or houseboat site, any sign designating a trailhead, structure, or day use site or any occupied undesignated site
All overnight use is prohibited at:
Designated day use sites, picnic areas, public docks, trailheads, parking areas, boat launch sites and structures
On National Park Service land bordering the Black Bay Wildlife Management Area during Minnesota waterfowl hunting season
Within 1/4 mile of the Park's developed areas, including the parking lots, roads and picnic areas at the Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, and Ash River visitor centers, Kettle Falls and on lands under a use and occupancy reservation without the tenant’s permission
The southeast edge of Cherry Nose Island. (Cherry Nose Island is located southwest of Cemetery Island on Kabetogama Lake)
At Sweet Nose Island, and within 200 feet of the “no camping” signs at Williams Island, Sprague’s Point and Woodenfrog Islands
(An April 11, 2007 internal staff review of resources and current camping practices determined that:
The level of camping at these undesignated sites has been observed at a significant level to create harm to the resources and/or the overlying protective soils and vegetation
Resources at these sites were deemed to offer significant value requiring special protection
The NPS documented resource impacts at these sites from undesignated camping, and the level of impact was identified as moderate or severe
Camping means the erecting of a tent or shelter of natural or synthetic material, preparing a sleeping bag or other bedding material for use, parking of a motor vehicle, motor home or trailer, or mooring of a vessel for the apparent purpose of overnight occupancy).
All tent campsites are designated as reservable and require a permit from recreation.gov for use.
Houseboat overnight use at designated and undesignated houseboat sites requires a permit from recreation.gov
Conditions:
Erecting tents on other than an established tent pad is prohibited
Exceptions are designated Backcountry sites on Interior Lakes that may not have tent pads, and the Blueberry Ridge (H2) and Red Pine (H1) backcountry sites located on the Kab-Ash trail. Camping at Kab-Ash trail sites is allowed only within 100 feet of the designated campsite sign
(There are no tent pads, only a core camping area cleared for these campsites. Monitoring usage over time will help determine any other infrastructure or resource mitigation efforts).
Houseboats must be actively used (physically occupied by an individual or person) on an overnight basis and cannot be left unattended to ‘hold’ a site for future use
Check in time for permit holders of a reservable campsite is 3 pm or later
Check out time for permit holders of a reservable campsite is 12 pm or earlier
Fishing from shore, picnicking, hiking, and all other legal recreational pursuits is prohibited within 200 yards of an occupied reserved campsite except by members of the permitted camping group
Day use of unoccupied campsites is allowed from 12 pm – 2 pm.
Mooring of houseboats to NPS docks is prohibited, except at the following day-use locations:
Rainy Lake Visitor Center floating dock
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center floating dock
Ash River Visitor Center floating dock
Anderson Bay trailhead
Locator Lake trailhead
Group campsites (Rainy and Kabetogama)
Little Cedar Island day use site
Dryweed Island day use site
Sheen Point day use site
Overnight mooring at these sites is prohibited. (This prohibition is implemented to prevent damage to docks and/or houseboats attached to them. Other docks are not designed to support the mooring weight of a houseboat in windy conditions. Tent camping is prohibited due to the absence of toilet facilities at houseboat sites and the history of human waste improperly deposited in the area of the houseboat site).
Overnight Use Limits:
At front country camp sites overnight use is limited to no more than 14 consecutive nights and no more than a total of 30 nights in the park in a calendar year, except for group campsites
At group campsites overnight use is limited to 7 consecutive nights and no more than a total of 7 nights in a calendar year
At backcountry camp sites overnight use is limited to 7 consecutive nights and no more than a total of 7 nights in a calendar year
Overnight use of park backcountry boat rentals is limited to 7 consecutive nights and no more than a total of 7 nights in a calendar year
(These limits do not apply to: use-and-occupancy residences, staying on private lands, and guests in concession facilities.Front country is defined as legally accessible by motor vehicle or motorboat and Backcountry is defined as legally accessible only by foot or non-motorized boat.)
Capacity Use Limits:
Small campsites may be occupied by 1 to 9 people
Large campsites may be occupied by 1 to 18 people
Group campsites may be occupied by 14 to 30 people
Group campsites are limited to a maximum of 5 houseboats
Designated or undesignated houseboat sites limited to a maximum of 2 houseboats
Rental Canoes and Rowboats may be utilized by 1 to 3 people
(b)(3) Camping within 25 feet of a fire hydrant or main road, or within 100 feet of a flowing stream, river or body of water is authorized only in the following areas, under the conditions noted:
Houseboats:
Houseboat mooring at an undesignated site or area is allowed but not within 200 yards of the permanent NPS metal campfire ring of any designated campsite or houseboat site, any sign designating a trailhead, structure, or day use site or any occupied undesignated site
Houseboats may stay at designated houseboat sites or moor out
Sailboats and Cabin Cruisers, regardless of their capabilities, are permitted to use tent sites with a valid tent camping permit. Other Houseboats are prohibited from using tent sites.
All other camping:
All other camping is allowed at designated and established tent sites
(d) Conditions for the storage of food are in effect, as noted, for the following areas:
From April 1 to November 30 - All food, lawfully taken fish, garbage, and equipment used to store food (such as ice chests) in all park areas must be kept in closed and locked compartments of a vehicle or vessel, bear‑proof food storage locker, hung from a bear pole, or suspended at least 10 feet above the ground and 4 feet horizontally from a post, tree trunk, or other object. This storage requirement does not apply when previously described items are being transported, consumed, or prepared for consumption.
Food, lawfully taken fish or wildlife, garbage, and equipment used to store food will be exempted from the above requirements if these items are stored within containers manufactured and tested as bear resistant food storage containers. Approved containers must be used and locked according to manufacturer’s directions.
Examples of approved containers can be found at the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) at:
Yeti Coolers, or similar, are only bear resistant when bolts or padlocks are utilized with the predrilled corners.
36 CFR §2.11 – PICNICKING
Public picnicking and day use activities are prohibited in the following areas:
Concessioner facilities where tables are provided as part of a food service operation
Developed campsites that are in use, or occupied by campers with a valid camping permit
Developed campsites after 2 p.m.
NPS residential, maintenance, service and utility areas
Designated houseboat sites
Undeveloped or non-established sites within 200 yards of any developed or established day use site, campsite, houseboat site, trailhead sign, dock, or structure.
(Picnicking is prohibited in Concession facilities to minimize impact on those operations where services are provided to include tables provided by the Concessioner for their customers and include maintenance, cleanup and public use management as a requirement of the Concessioners responsibilities. Developed campsites after 2 p.m. and houseboat sites are closed to public picnicking to avoid conflict with users who have an exclusive right to the site for overnight use. NPS residential, maintenance, service and utility areas are closed to public picnicking to prevent conflict with administrative activities not suitable for public engagement and intrusion on private uses as part of a landlord contractual agreement).
Conditions:
Use of designated day use sites is limited to no more than 18 people total
Use of designated day use sites is only allowed between sunrise and sunset
36 CFR 2.13 – FIRES
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas and/or receptacles, and under the conditions noted: Designated Areas:
designated tent and houseboat camping sites
undesignated houseboat camping sites
day use sites
Numbers of and types of Receptacles Allowed:
NPS metal fire rings
(1) rock ring at undesignated houseboats
(1) non-NPS fire pan at undesignated houseboats
Conditions: The park adopts Minnesota state law and regulation regarding firewood. Acceptable firewood is purchased from a vendor that is either
non-ash firewood harvested from and purchased in the same county where it will be used (be sure to keep your receipt to show proof of purchase)
firewood harvested in Minnesota that has been certified by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture or the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (be sure to keep your receipt to show proof of purchase)
Kiln-dried, unpainted, unstained dimensional lumber that is free of any metal or foreign substances, or manufactured logs. Pallet wood is not approved firewood. Dimensional lumber does not require proof of purchase
Burning of trash, including but not limited to plastics, Styrofoam, glass, and metal cans is prohibited
(This restriction is consistent with firewood restrictions in Minnesota State Parks. Prohibiting this type of wood is necessary to protect Voyageurs National Park from infestations of emerald ash borer, gypsy moth, Sirex wood wasp, Asian long-horned beetle, and a number of other wood-boring insects. It also protects against decay, fungi and pathogens that cause Dutch elm disease, oak wilt and sudden oak death). Use and Occupancy Reservations:
The legal occupant of federally owned lands under a use and occupancy reservation is allowed to have a campfire while utilizing said property unless temporary emergency restrictions are enacted.
A state burning permit is required for burning brush or debris and must be in accordance with State and Federal air quality regulation and law.
(a)(2) The following restrictions are in effect for the use of stoves or lanterns:
Lighting and maintaining a fire which is contained in or on a raised platform that is not in contact with the ground, is permitted within the park (e.g. barbecue style grill, cook stove)
(b) Fires must be extinguished according to the following conditions:
All Ash, Coals, and Wood:
Must have no visible fire, burning, smoldering, or smoke emanating from them and must be cold to the touch
36 CFR §2.14 – SANITATION and REFUSE
(a)(2) The use of government refuse receptacles or facilities for dumping household,Commercial, or industrial refuse, brought as such from private or municipal property is allowed under the following conditions:
None; the act is prohibited.
(b) Conditions for the disposal, containerization, or carryout of human body waste have been established as follows:
In all backcountry and front country camping settings that don’t provide a park privy (including dispersed camping), human waste must be:
Carried out and disposed of in an approved trash receptacle
Or
Buried 6 inches or more in the ground and must be more than 100 feet away of a flowing stream, river, or body of water
36 CFR §2.15 – PETS
Front country campsites and day use sites (within 100’ of the shoreline on Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Sand Point lakes)
Outdoor developed public use areas, parking areas, walkways, and boat ramps
Lake surfaces (frozen or open water) on which motorboats are allowed
The Rainy Lake Visitor Center Recreation Trail
When adequate ice and snow conditions are present dog teams and dog sleds are permitted on frozen lake surfaces of Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Sand Point Lakes within the park.
NOTE: “The regulation authorizes the superintendent to close other areas of the park to the possession of dogs, cats and other pets. The Service has determined that most commemorative, wilderness, natural and backcountry zones should be closed to the possession of pets. Subparagraph (a)(1) provides the authority to implement the closures necessary to protect the values enumerated in §1.5(a).” [48 FR 30267, June 30, 1983]
NOTE: Pet means dogs, cats, or any animal that has been domesticated. [36 CFR §1.4] (a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions: All pet excrement must be collected immediately and disposed of in an approved trash receptacle. (e) Pets may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:
Park employee housing consistent with park housing policy
Park buildings and facilities upon superintendent’s written authorization
36 CFR §2.17 – AIRCRAFT and AIR DELIVERY
(a)(1) Areas designated for operating or using aircraft are provided for in section 7.33
(a)(2) The operation or use of aircraft under power on water within 500 feet of designated swimming beaches, boat docks, piers, or ramps is permitted in the following areas, under the conditions noted:
All areas of the park
(c)(1) The removal of a downed aircraft, components, or parts thereof is subject to procedures established by the Superintendent through written authorization.
NOTE: Section (c)(1) authorizes the superintendent to establish procedures for the removal of an aircraft; establish a timeframe for the removal; determine times and means of access to the site and specify the manner or method of removal. The intent of this section is to allow superintendents control over the recovery of downed aircraft through a permitting process. [48 FR 30268, June 30, 1983]
36 CFR §2.18 – SNOWMOBILES
(c) Snowmobiles may be operated only on routes designated in Title 36 CFR Section 7.33(b)
d)(4) Maximum speed limit:
25 mph on all land portages and land trails
45 mph on all frozen lake surfaces
Exception: the Minnesota state trail Voyageur Snowmobile Trail traversing through a small section of the park near the Moose River Grade is 45 mph to reflect Minnesota’s maximum snowmobile speed limit
(This is to seek enforcement consistency with the state regulations given that this area is frequently patrolled by Minnesota Department of Natural Resource officers and park rangers).
36 CFR §2.19 – WINTER ACTIVITIES
(c) Failure to abide by area designations or activity restrictions established under this section is prohibited.
Conditions:
Allowing ice blocks to remain on the frozen lake surface is prohibited
Constructing, maintaining, or using a structure, windbreak or shelter made of snow or ice on the frozen lake surface is prohibited
Plowing to construct or maintain a roadway on the frozen lake surface which exceeds 300' in length from the plowed edge of the established NPS ice road and construction of a private ice road prior to the establishment of park maintained ice roads, without a permit, is prohibited
Plowing snow on the frozen lake surface which creates a risk of jeopardy to snowmobiles by creating berms with peaked or abrupt edges or piles that stand more than 3' tall, is prohibited
The following activities within 50' of the centerline of snowmobile trails are prohibited:
Placement of equipment or any type of structure. Structures placed on a frozen lake surface prior to the annual establishment of the snowmobile trail shall be moved if the snowmobile trail must pass within 50’ of the structure.
Fishing activity or other forms of recreational activity except snowmobiling, skiing, snowshoeing, fat-tire biking, and other strictly human powered forms of travel
This compendium restriction is in response to public safety concerns resulting from fishing activity conducted on those trails open to snowmobile use as designated in 36 CFR 7.33b. Conflicting public activity within a designated trail must be prohibited in order to reduce the risk of injury or death to park visitors. Environmental conditions including poor light, inadequate depth perception and blowing snow can easily reduce the ability of a snowmobile operator to safely respond to, stop and/or avoid people, structures and materials located within a designated snowmobile trail. All designated trails are inspected and groomed (except the overland portages and the chain of lakes trail), to a width of 60’. An additional 40’ width beyond the groomed designated trail area serves as a shoulder for snowmobiles to pull over and stop. This public use restriction will aid in avoiding unsafe visitor activities within 100’ of designated snowmobile trails. This restriction is not expected to cause significant public controversy).
The following activities within 50' of the plowed edge of the established NPS ice roads are prohibited:
Placement of equipment or any type of structure. Structures placed on a frozen lake surface prior to the annual establishment of the ice road shall be moved if the ice road must pass within 50’ of the structure.
Drilling or cutting of holes in the ice for fishing or other activities
Only snowmobiles as defined in 36 CFR §1.4 are allowed across portages listed in 36 CFR §7.33(b)(2).
Vehicles that do not meet the NPS definition of a snowmobile are not allowed on land portages in the park except under the terms of a special use permit issued by the Superintendent
(Although classified as a snowmobile in Minnesota statue, the width of such vehicles would make it unsafe for oncoming traffic on the narrow and winding portages. In addition, the weight of such vehicles is a concern in that it could degrade groomed and maintained snowmobile trails on portages and cause resource damage to plants and soils).
A designated ski trail leading from the Rainy Lake Visitor Center to the Black Bay ski trails may be maintained by the NPS prior to the opening of the Rainy Lake Ice Road. Skiing is the only allowed recreation use for this trail. Once the ice road is put into place, the ski trail will not be maintained.
(Under the park’s enabling legislation the park may make appropriate provisions for winter sports.
Dogsledding and Skijoring
Dogsledding and skijoring are allowed on the frozen lake surfaces of Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Sand Point Lakes.
Dogsledding and skijoring is not allowed on park-maintained snowmobile trails, park-maintained ice roads, or any landmass without a permit.
Dogsledding and skijoring users may cross park-maintained snowmobile trails and ice roads to access areas open to their use on the other side.
Overnight dogsled and skijoring users must stake dogs on a frozen lake surface in a manner that will not cause damage to vegetation or the shoreline.
Locally sourced wood chips or blankets/tarps are the only acceptable form of bedding for overnight dogsledding and skijoring use. Wood chips must be collected and removed from the frozen lake surface upon the conclusion of the overnight occupancy of the site.
(The public use limits enacted are necessary to limit the potential for the interaction and disease transmission between dogs and wildlife, to reduce the potential for introduction of non-native plant material, and to limit the potential conflict between different use groups of the public)
36 CFR §2.20 – SKATING, SKATEBOARDS and SIMILAR DEVICES
The use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices are allowed only in the following areas:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail
36 CFR §2.21 – SMOKING
(a) The following portions of the park, or all or portions of buildings, structures or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:
All Park buildings, structures, and facilities
(This is to protect park resources, reduce the risk of fire, and prevent conflicts among visitor use activities)
36 CFR §2.22 – PROPERTY
(a)(2) Property may be left unattended for periods longer than 24 hours in the following areas and under the following conditions:
Structures used for fishing on frozen lake surfaces during the ice fishing season and in compliance with state laws
Visitors camping on public lands adjacent to or within the park may leave their vehicles and boat trailers at designated parking areas
Overnight users of private cabins and leased land may not leave vehicles or boat trailers in public parking areas for more than 24 hours
Leaving unattended items associated with ‘geo caching’, which is an activity related to the use of GPS and the internet to locate a hidden cache of materials on park lands, is prohibited. These unattended items will be considered abandoned and impounded whenever located. All other unattended property which is not included in part 2.22 (a)(2) may be impounded after 24 hours.
36 CFR §2.23 – RECREATION FEES
(b) Recreation fees, and/or a permit, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following entrance fee areas, and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events or specialized recreation uses:Entrance Fee Areas:
All park areas designated for overnight use
NOTE: There are no entrance fees to the park. However, in 2014, a reservation system was implemented for all overnight camping in the park.
36 CFR §2.35 –ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES and CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
(a)(3)(i) The following public use areas, portions of public use areas, and/or public facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed:
The possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all visitor centers and National Park Service owned vessels and vehicles except under the terms of a special use permit issued by the Superintendent.
36 CFR §2.51 –Public Assemblies, Meetings
(e) The following areas for Public Assemblies are designated on maps available in the Office of the Superintendent:
Rainy Lake Visitor Center and boat launching facility:
50 ft. by 50 ft. area in the western end of the boat launch parking lot near the first island
50 ft. by 50 ft. grassy area at the southwest end of the upper parking lot
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center and boat launching facility:
50 ft. by 50 ft. area on the small point directly north of the launch ramp near the east end of the parking lot
50 ft. by 50 ft. area of grassy between the dumpsters and the bulletin board at the east end of the parking lot
Ash River Visitor Center and boat launching facility:
50 ft. by 50ft. area between the visitor center and the lower parking lot
50 ft. by 50 ft. area between the visitor center and the middle parking lot
Headquarters Administrative Building:
50 ft. by 50 ft. area located on the grass adjacent to the west side of the concrete walkway entrance
36 CFR §2.52 - Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter
(e) The following areas for Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter are designated on maps available in the Office of the Superintendent:
Rainy Lake Visitor Center and boat launching facility:
50 ft. by 50 ft. area in the western end of the boat launch parking lot near the first island
50 ft. by 50 ft. grassy area at the southwest end of the upper parking lot
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center and boat launching facility:
50 ft. by 50 ft. area on the small point directly north of the launch ramp near the east end of the parking lot
50 ft. by 50 ft. area of grassy between the dumpsters and the bulletin board at the east end of the parking lot
Ash River Visitor Center and boat launching facility:
50 ft. by 50 ft. area between the visitor center and the lower parking lot
50 ft. by 50 ft. area between the visitor center and the middle parking lot
Headquarters Administrative Building:
50 ft. by 50 ft. area located on the grass adjacent to the west side of the concrete walkway entrance
36 CFR §3.8 – Prohibited Vessel Operations
(a)(2) The following are designated boat launch sites:
Rainy Lake Visitor Center boat ramp
Kabetogama Visitor Center boat ramp
Ash River Visitor Center boat ramp
The developed shoreline on the southwest shore of Kabetogama Lake where the shoreline is not owned by the park
Both developed boat ramps on the Rainy and Namakan side of Kettle Falls portage road
The shoreline directly adjacent to the interior lakes:
managed under the NPS “Boats on Interior Lakes” program is allowed only for the launching and recovering of NPS boats
boats authorized under a commercial use authorization
36 CFR §3.12 – WATER SKIING
(a) The following waters are designated for towing of a person by a vessel:
Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Sand Point lakes except in the following areas:
King Williams Narrows between the Park boundary and Sand Point Lake navigational buoy #27
Namakan Narrows between navigational day marker #12 and Namakan Lake navigational day marker #14
Kettle Falls area between navigational buoy #41 and the dam on Rainy Lake and between the dam and 100 feet west of Squirrel Narrows on Namakan Lake
Ash River Narrows from 100 feet beyond each end of the narrows on Kabetogama Lake
Brule Narrows between navigational buoy #12 and #32 on Rainy Lake
In designated channels
(The ‘Narrows’ have been closed as the result of an administrative decision that public safety would be seriously compromised if the activity was allowed. The King Williams Narrows is a narrow passageway bordered by rock walls. Space is limited for two passing vessels in this area and requires slow passage to ensure safe boating operations can be conducted. The Kettle Falls area, designated harbors and swimming beaches receive concentrated public use both in the water and on the water. Visitor safety requires slow speed boating activity in this area to ensure adequate operator awareness of public use and behaviors that would be seriously compromised with water skiing activities).
36 CFR §4.21 – SPEED LIMITS
The following speed limits for wheeled, roadway vehicles are established:
The maximum speed limit on all designated ice roads is 30 mph
The maximum speed limit on NPS-1 road is 35 mph, unless posted otherwise
(Due to the character of an ice road surface, limited braking, steering and traction, the allowable speed is reduced to 30 mph to enhance appropriate control of a vehicle).
CFR §4.30 – BICYCLES
Electric Bikes:
The term “electric bicycle” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of not more than 750 watts that meets the requirements of one of the following three classes:
“Class 1 electric bicycle” shall mean an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
“Class 2 electric bicycle” shall mean an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
“Class 3 electric bicycle” shall mean an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour.
All three (3) classes of electric bikes are allowed in Voyageurs National Park where traditional bicycles are allowed, this includes the Rainy Lake Recreation Trail, County 96 Road (Rainy Lake Visitor Center Road), and the Meadwood Road (Ash River Visitor Center Road). Electric bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor exclusively to move an electric bicycle for an extended period of time without pedaling is prohibited.A person operating an electric bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h) (2)-(5). Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an electric bike within Voyageurs National Park is governed by Minnesota State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited. (Electric bikes are a relatively new technology that advance Healthy Parks Healthy People goals to promote parks as a health resource by supporting a healthy park experience that is accessible, desirable, and relatable to people of all abilities, and by minimizing human impact through the expansion of active transportation options in parks. Specifically, electric bikes can increase bicycle access to and within parks, expand the option of bicycling to more people, and mitigate environmental impacts through reduced carbon emissions. The superintendent has determined that expanding access of electric bikes, per the definitions and restrictions above, to areas in the park where bicycles are already allowed does not pose additional safety or resource protection concerns).
36 CFR §5.5 – FILMING
The following types of filming activities may occur in areas open to the public without a permit and without advance notice to the NPS:
• Outdoor filming activities [outside of areas managed as wilderness] involving five persons or less and equipment that will be carried at all times, except for small tripods used to hold cameras.
The organizer of any other type of filming activity must provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based upon the information provided, the Superintendent may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if necessary to:
• maintain public health and safety;
• protect environmental or scenic values;
• protect natural or cultural resources;
• allow for equitable allocation and use of facilities; or
• avoid conflict among visitor use activities.
If the Superintendent determines that the terms and conditions of a permit could not mitigate the concerns identified above in an acceptable manner, the Superintendent may deny a filming request without issuing a permit. The Superintendent will provide the basis for denial in writing upon request.
The NPS will consider requests and process permit applications in a timely manner. Processing times will vary depending on the complexity of the proposed activity. If the organizer provides the required 10 day advance notice to the NPS and has not received a written response from the NPS that a permit is required prior to the first day of production, the proposed filming activities may occur without a permit.
The following are prohibited:
(1) Engaging in a filming activity without providing advance notice to the Superintendent when required.
(2) Engaging in a filming activity without a permit if [the activity takes place in areas managed as wilderness or if] the Superintendent has notified the organizer in writing that a permit is required. (3) Violating a term and condition of a permit issued under this action. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued under to this action may also result in the suspension and revocation of the permit by the Superintendent.
V. Part 7: Special Regulations in Areas of the National Park System
36 CFR §7.33 - Voyageurs National Park
(a)Fishing. Unless otherwise designated, fishing in a manner authorized under applicable State law is allowed.
(b)Snowmobiles. (1) The following lakes and trails within Voyageurs National Park are open to snowmobile use: (i) The frozen waters of Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, Mukooda, Little Trout and Sand Point Lakes. (ii) The Moose River Railroad Grade from the park boundary north to Ash River, and then east to Moose Bay, Namakan Lake. (iii) The portage trail between Grassy Bay and Little Trout Lake. (iv) The Chain of Lakes Trail from its intersection with the Black Bay to Moose Bay portage, across Locator, War Club, Quill, Loiten, and Shoepack Lakes, to Kabetogama Lake.
(2)Snowmobile use is allowed across the following marked safety portages: Black Bay to Moose Bay, Lost Bay to Saginaw Bay, Laurins Bay to Kettle Falls, Squirrel Narrows, Squaw Narrows, Grassy Bay, Namakan Narrows, Swansons Bay, Mukooda Lake to Sand Point Lake (north), Mukooda Lake to Sand Point Lake (south), Mukooda Lake to Crane Lake, Tar Point, Kohler Bay, and Sullivan Bay to Kabetogama Lake.
(3) The Superintendent may determine yearly opening and closing dates for snowmobile use, and temporarily close trails or lake surfaces, taking into consideration public safety, wildlife management, weather, and park management objectives.
(4) Maps showing the designated routes are available at park headquarters and at ranger stations.
(5)Snowmobile use outside open designated routes and lake surfaces is prohibited.(c)Aircraft. (1)Aircraft may be operated on the entire water surface and frozen lake surface of the following lakes, except as restricted in paragrah (c)(4) of this section and § 2.17 of this chapter: Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, Sand Point, Locator, War Club, Quill, Loiten, Shoepack, Little Trout and Mukooda.
(2) Approaches, landings and take-offs shall not be made within 500 feet of any developed facility, boat dock, float, pier, ramp or beach.
(3)Aircraft may taxi to and from a dock or ramp designated for their use for the purpose of mooring and must be operated with due care and regard for persons and property and in accordance with any posted signs or waterway markers.
(4) Areas within the designated lakes may be closed to aircraft use by the Superintendent taking into consideration public safety, wildlife management, weather and park management objectives.
NOTE ON CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION USE IN THE PARK
In accordance with National Park Service (NPS) Law Enforcement Reference Manual 9 (RM-9), notice is hereby given that Voyageurs National Park may use Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) security camera monitoring.
The NPS’s use of CCTV for law enforcement and security purposes will only be to visually monitor public park areas and public activities where no constitutionally protected reasonable expectation of privacy exists. Such CCTV use – which will have adequate privacy and First Amendment safeguards – will be to help ensure public safety and security; facilitate the detection, investigation, prevention, and deterrence of terrorist activity; help ensure the safety of citizens and officers; help assist in the proper allocation and deployment of law enforcement and public safety resources; and help facilitate the protection of the innocent and the apprehension and prosecution of criminals.
This policy does not restrict the official use of CCTV in government administrative areas, including administrative buildings, jail holding facilities, revenue collection sites, etc., where the government may record/monitor its facilities. For example, the government may perform unrestricted video/audio recording at revenue collection points (entrance stations, visitor center counters, etc.). This policy does not restrict the use of an Audio/Visual Recording Device (AVRD) in patrol vehicles or officer worn recording devices used by commissioned rangers.
Operation of CCTV cameras will be in accordance with NPS and Department policy. No person will be targeted or monitored merely because of race, religion, gender, sex, disability, national origin, or political affiliation or views.
Nothing in this policy statement is intended to create any rights, privileges, or benefits not otherwise recognized by law.
-END-
Appendix A
Last updated: March 14, 2022
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Contact Info
Mailing Address:
Voyageurs National Park Headquarters
360 Hwy 11 East
International Falls
,
MN
56649
