U.S. Forest Service map prices to increase

COEUR d’ALENE — For the first time in nearly a decade, increasing costs of production, printing, and distribution are driving the need for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s U.S. Forest Service to increase the price of its maps. Prices of USFS paper and plastic-coated maps will increase to $14 on Monday, Jan. 1, 2018.

Maps are sold at all of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests rangers stations, Supervisor’s Office and some local stores. In an effort to help offset the pricing increase for volume sales, starting Jan. 1, 2018, discount pricing will be made available on sales of 10 or more of maps of the same title. Discounted maps are only available when purchased through the National Forest Map Store.

There are three ways to purchase maps from the National Forest Map Store:

1. Online: www.NationalForestStore.com

2. By phone: 406-329-3024

3. By U.S. Mail: USDA Forest Service, National Forest Store, P.O. Box 7669, Missoula, MT 59807

The Forest Service continually updates its maps and looks for ways to enhance maps. The Forest Service expects to shorten the revision cycle as cartographers continue to apply new digital technology to the map revision process. We are also working to increase the availability of digital maps. Digital maps for mobile applications can be downloaded here: http://www.avenza.com/pdf-maps/store. Digital maps cost $4.99 per side.

The U.S. Forest Service is dedicated in researching, producing and distributing informative, accurate maps that can help improve the experience on America’s national forests and grasslands. Additional online resources that may help users enjoy the great outdoors is the Interactive Visitor Map to help you find great places to go and explore, and the Know Before You Go for tips that can help you enjoy the outdoors and be safe.