Would making your cabin area a Historical area be a good idea: The National Historic Preservation Act was enacted in 1966 and requires Federal agencies to manage and preserve historic properties under Federal jurisdiction. Forest Service officials are required to identify, evaluate, and plan for potential effects and avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse impacts to historic properties located on Federal lands or pursuant to a Federal action. Compliance requirements of the National Historic Preservation Act specify a standard process that Federal agency officials must use to consider the potential impacts of proposed “undertakings” (projects) on historic properties. This process is completed through consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), Native American Tribes, and other interested parties. The Forest Service is required to evaluate recreation residences nearing the 50-year-old threshold—the qualifying age for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. They may be eligible for listing either as individual properties or as properties that contribute to a larger historic district, i.e. cabin tracts. Certain cabin areas have either begun to see these evaluations taking place or have gone through the evaluation process. Having a cabin or tract deemed “historic” imposes various restrictions on those cabins. If you are facing issues or concerns related to the Historic Preservation Act, feel free to reach out to WCA and we will assist you. If you are a member of National Forest Homeowners (NFH), their website has some helpful information on how it may impact your cabin and cabin tract. NFH has been working with cabin owners on this topic for many years and they have vast experience on the topic. For more information visit http://www.nationalforesthomeowners.org/group/Historic_Pres Erica Duvic has provided a link to the Forest Service’s “A Guide to Maintaining the Historic Character of Your Forest Service Recreation Residence” at https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3836223.pdf. It is a great starting point for explaining the process. If you or your members have specific questions or concerns I am happy to assist. Thank you, Erica Duvic Historic Preservation Specialist Community Preservation Coordinator Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office p 307-777-3418 f 307-777-6421 http://wyoshpo.state.wy.us/