GALICE — The Rum Creek Fire has damaged phone and internet service at the Smullin Visitor Center in Rand, changing how permits are issued for boating the Wild Section of the Rogue River from Grave Creek to Foster Bar, according to a news advisory from BLM.

Permits are required to float the Rogue’s Wild and Scenic Section from May 15 to Oct. 15.

Cancellation permit spaces are available only by calling the Bureau of Land Management Grants Pass Office at 541-471-6535. Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Float space openings will be posted on the BLM’s Rogue River website under the calendar for float space openings: blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotteries-and-permit-systems/oregon-washington/rogue-river

Parties with permits must pick up their permits between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Smullin Visitor Center at Rand on the day of their launch. “Day of” permits utilizing the “no show” walk-ins will not be issued at the Smullin Visitor Center for the remainder of the 2022 permit season.

Next day permits are not available in person but must be obtained by calling 541-471-6535. Currently there are no water, restrooms, phone or internet services available at the Smullin Visitor Center.

Boaters are encouraged to launch at Ennis Riffle, Indian Mary County Park or Almeda County Park. Almeda has a $5 per day launch/parking fee. The Grave Creek boat ramp is not accessible from Galice Road. The Rand and Argo boat ramps are closed due to fire damage and safety concerns.

On Sept. 17, BLM reduced the size of the public land closure area. This change allowed BLM to reopen The Rogue River National Recreation Trail. However, the Rainie Falls Trail (river left) is closed.