Anan observatory permits available in February

Permits will soon become available for those wanting an opportunity to visit Anan Wildlife Observatory this summer.

Known primarily for its abundance of bears, the observatory was identified as Wrangell’s top attraction by a survey conducted by the city last summer.

According to Forest Service records, Anan draws between 2,400 and 2,800 visitors each summer. These travelers contributed around $1.5 million to the local economy in 2014, making up more than a third of all tourism-related spending.

Starting Feb. 1 at 8 a.m. the public will be able to reserve permits at www.recreation.gov for the u...