Annual Spring Trail Closures Across Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

For Immediate Release
Contact: Catherine Pinegar (715) 362- 1373 or Suzanne Flory (715) 362-1354

Annual Spring Trail Closures Across Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Rhinelander, Wis. (March 5, 2010) -- The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest’s All Terrain Vehicle (ATV), motor bike, horse and mountain bike trails are closed from March 15 to April 30 during the spring thaw. This closure is for all Forest Service jurisdiction trails. The closure does not affect trails on private or other public lands.

This standard annual closure is put into place each spring to help protect the trail system. “Heavy trail use during the spring thaw causes significant damage to roads and trails. Rutting, soil erosion and other resource damage can occur when saturated and muddy ground is disturbed; resulting in costly repairs that could possibly extend closures until trails are rehabilitated. ” explained Catherine Pinegar, Forest Recreation Planner.

Trail users should check with counties in which they plan to travel regarding county and State trail systems regulations before planning any trail riding between now and May 1.

Trail users are encouraged to help to protect everyone’s recreation opportunities throughout the year by honoring this closure. As the May 1 date for re-opening the trails draws near, trail conditions will be monitored and evaluated to determine when they are ready for use. ###