FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Chris Strebig (360) 891-5005
VANCOUVER, WA – Due to the unusually low snowpack this year, officials with the Gifford Pinchot National Forest would like to remind all forest visitors that there is a winter recreation road closure from December 1 to April 1 that prohibits wheeled vehicles on certain roads. These closures are to protect wildlife during the winter period and to provide for winter sports such as skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. This closure helps to prevent damage to the surface of the groomed snowmobile and ski trails. Compliance with this closure will help save money targeted for snow grooming. Please check with your local Forest Service Office for the list of roads that are closed.
All closed areas are open to the public with access by foot. Snowmobiles are not allowed in wildlife winter range areas. Winter wildlife and winter sports closures will be in effect until April 1, 2010.
Please make sure you and your vehicle are prepared for winter travel. Remember to carry emergency equipment and chains. Your safety depends on good planning and good judgment. For updates on weather and road conditions, contact Forest Service offices. For statewide road information visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/.
For current Forest road information, please contact Gifford Pinchot National Forest offices, or visit the Current Conditions section of our website at www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/recreation/current-conditions/. The Forest Headquarters in Vancouver can be reached at 360-891-5001.
http://www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/news/2010/documents/final-20100119a-winter-closure-reminder.pdf
