Bighorn National Forest – Free Teepee Harvest Permit application (Eastern Shoshone Tribe)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 1, 2026

Fort Washakie, WY– Thanks to a collaborative effort between the Eastern Shoshone Tribe and the U.S. Forest Service, up to 200 permits for teepee poles from the Bighorn National Forest will be available to Eastern Shoshone tribal members. The Eastern Shoshone Tribal Historic Preservation Office (ESTHPO) will facilitate the permit application process. Interested individuals can fill out an online application or visit the THPO office during regular business hours at 17 North Fork Road in Fort Washakie. 

Each permit allows for up to 48 poles to be taken from a designated area of the Bighorn and Shoshone NF. All 48 poles do not have to be harvested in the same trip. Applicants will be given 2 load tags for 24 poles (or less) each. A map of the designated harvest area will be provided to applicants. Please be prepared to show a tribal ID and sign for the permit upon pickup. Poles are designated for personal use only and cannot be sold or exchanged. Permits are available for enrolled Eastern Shoshone tribal members ages 18 and over. 

Applicants will be required to follow the requirements listed on the Load Ticket and the Terms and Conditions of the BHNF. 

Access the online application and Terms and Conditions here: https://forms.gle/EUHX42HUEDgb3YSY6

For more information, contact the THPO office at 307-335-2081.