The following is a press release issued by the Mendocino National Forest:
Mendocino National Forest officials have issued trail closures on all National Forest System trails designated for off-highway vehicle (OHV) use due to wet weather. On the Grindstone District, the trail closure is in effect as of 2 p.m. on Dec. 18, per Forest Order 08-23-09. On the Upper Lake Ranger District, the trail closure will be in effect beginning at midnight on Dec. 19, per Forest Order 08-23-10.
Temporary wet weather trail closures go into effect when two inches of rainfall occur within a 24-hour period or when the soils are saturated. The weather forecast is also showing 90-100% chance for showers through Wednesday this week.
Wet weather trail closures restrict the use of motor vehicles on National Forest System trails when conditions are too wet to sustain use without causing soil loss, impacting water quality, damaging trail tread and putting public safety at risk.
These limited duration closures will remain in place until no measurable precipitation is recorded within 48 consecutive hours. By issuing these closures as precipitation events occur, forest managers provide for public safety, protect natural resources during and after storms and allow time for trails to dry out prior to resuming use. The restrictions may be implemented anytime during fall and winter seasons through June 2024.
The following persons are exempt from this Order:
- Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire-fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
- Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order.
Trail users can check the precipitation data online before traveling to the forest.
When closures occur, information will be posted on the forest website and social media.
Forest orders and updates can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/mendocino/alerts-notices.
