January 6, 2026
The Forest Service says it will require a special use permit for the new Eightmile Lake dam.
In response to an inquiry by Icicle Network, the public affairs officer for the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest replied:
The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has been working closely with the Icicle Peshastin Irrigation District to address permit requirements. While no applications have been submitted to date, our current understanding of the proposed work indicates that several authorizations will be necessary. These include a road use permit and special use permits for activities on National Forest System lands not covered by the Special Warranty Deed. We have communicated these requirements to the irrigation district and look forward to continuing our coordination to support their project needs.
This would seem to resolve the uncertainty expressed at the Icicle Work Group's December 2025 meeting.
The road use permit referenced here relates only to use and maintenance of existing roads.