March 1 is the application deadline for lottery permits to visit the bear viewing site at McNeil River State Game Sanctuary.
Online applications and printable application forms are available at the Alaska Department of Fish and Game McNeil River website, through the "permits" tab and "Viewing Permits" link, or by calling 1-907-267-2253.
A nonrefundable application fee of $25 per person is required. Applications are entered into a lottery and, if drawn, Alaska residents pay a $150 permit fee, and nonresidents $350.
The McNeil River hosts the world's largest known gathering of brown bears. Hundreds of people apply each year for permits to watch bears drawn to the river to feed on migrating salmon.
The article orginially appeared in the Cordova Times, and is reprinted here with permission. You can reach Cordova Times Staff with comments and suggestions at cdvtimes(at)thecordovatimes.com