IDAHO RIVERS -- Applications to get coveted permits for floating the Selway, Snake, Middle Fork of the Salmon, or wild main Salmon rivers for this coming season must be submitted online by Jan. 31.

The new shift by the Forest Service to online applications includes a few other twists:

• Reservations will be accepted only at the national public lands recreation Web site: recreation.gov.
• Each applicant must have a unique e-mail address to create an online profile.

Officials say the new system will be faster and allow applicants to file for more launch options.

Safety alerts and notices can be sent to river permit holders as their trips draw near abouts.

Boaters also can use the Web site to make reservations for preseason and post-season launches for the Middle Fork and wild main Salmon rivers.

Where do the permits go?

The highest number of Idaho's coveted permits for the Selway, Snake, Salmon and Middle Fork Salmon go to the following states, in descending order:  

Idaho, Washington, Oregon.