According to someone else who called, the savings is $1 of res fee - don't know of CA or US but can guess.  Yes. 5 months out and not before mid May or after late September - just like before.  I like the idea I can easily see what permits are or are not available quickly.  It was a little arduous to get an image of what was available over several days over the telephone.  Got to think this system will prompt more people to reserve themselves and rely on outfitters for their service less.