The only Comprehensive Index of the
US Forest Service Manual and Handbook

Navigate the difficult landscape of U.S. Forest Service Special Use Permits with this single, comprehensive index.

Garden Law Firm Forest Service Manual and Handbook Index 2025

Where can I find answers to my questions about U.S. Forest Service permitting?

The Forest Service Manual and Handbooks are notoriously difficult to navigate.

Until now, there has been no single content index of these materials to assist permittees in finding the right guidance.

We've put together a single, comprehensive index that allows you to quickly locate the most relevant sections of Forest Service policy that apply to your business.

Find Special Use Permit info fast.

As a U.S. Forest Service permittee, it's critical to know how the Forest Service interprets the terms in your permit. They set those interpretations out in several manuals and handbooks with no central entry point.

Garden Law has created the only Comprehensive Index of the US Forest Service Manual and Handbooks.

We're offering it for free, because we want you to have the information you need to make the best decisions for your business with the USDA Forest Service.

Download the Comprehensive Forest Service Index now!

To get your own copy of the comprehensive Forest Service Index, simply fill out the form and click “Get My Free Forest Service Index.”

Proud to provide legal counsel to

National Forest Recreaction Association-1
National Park Hospitality Association logo-1
Back Country Horsemen of America logo-1
National Forest Homeowners logo DRAFT-1

Garden Law Firm reviews

Here’s what some of our clients are saying about working with Garden Law

Responsive and easy to work with

"We're a small nonprofit with no internal legal counsel. The Garden Law Firm was very responsive from the start, able to work within our budget, and exceeded expectations in advancing our cause with the USFS in a cordial, nonconfrontational way. As non-lawyers, we found Kevin to be professional and easy to work and communicate with. I would highly recommend his firm to other clients."

Nonprofit recreation user group on USFS lands

Provided clear legal guidance 

“Kevin did an excellent job representing us with the USFS. We enjoyed and appreciated his straight-forward approach. His thoughts were spot-on as he presented the details with great clarity. He laid out the facts and costs and always stayed on track. We cannot express how much confidence we have in Kevin Garden's skills, ability, and approach in dealing with a difficult situation!”

USFS Term Permit Resort Operator

Gets results from the government

“Kevin Garden excels at navigating the complexities of governmental agencies and securing Special Use Permits. With a deep understanding of the intricate processes and subtle nuances involved, he consistently delivers results in successfully working with large-scale government entities.”

USFS Outfitter and Guide

Helped win our NPS concession contract

“Our company was recently awarded its first NPS concession contract. Kevin’s guidance, based on his many years of experience, was extremely helpful in our understanding of how the NPS concession program worked, as well as all the nuances of our contract obligations.” 

National Park Service Concessioner

Specific knowledge to solve my NPS dispute

“I recently used The Garden Law Firm in a dispute I had with the National Park Service. It was a very specific situation and Kevin was well-versed and knowledgeable on everything that I needed. Kevin exhibited the correct amount of aggression while also being objective to what my needs were. He took time to explain things to me, so that I understood them completely before making any decisions, and he advised me on what I felt was the correct path. I was very happy with his services and will continue to use his firm going forward.”

National Park Service Concessioner

An invaluable legal partner

“Our Forest Service campground concessionaire company has been working with Kevin for over 20 years. He has helped us understand the requirements and limitations outlined in our government Special Use Permits. If there is ever a question on the legal ramifications of our operations, Kevin is readily available to assist with a knowledgeable, carefully articulated and balanced opinion on the best course of action to take. His calm demeanor, thoughtful listening skills and extensive knowledge of government contracts make Kevin an invaluable partner.”

USFS Campground Permit Holder

Expert advice, litigation, and advocacy

“I initially developed a great partnership with Kevin at the Garden Law Firm in 2018. His experience dealing with government agencies and the NEPA process has been invaluable in our efforts to keep public land access open for everyone in Colorado. Kevin has advised us on everything from FOIA requests to public comments during agency projects to objections and litigation. I highly recommend Kevin’s services to anyone seeking help to deal with the Forest Service and government process.”

Nonprofit recreation user group on USFS lands
The Garden Law Firm. Your Legal Compass.

If you need more help negotiating with the Forest Service or understanding your rights as a permittee, get in touch.