MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST – The Mendocino National Forest’s Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trail system will remain closed to vehicle traffic until midnight Thursday, Nov. 4, conditions permitting.

The closure order covers the entire Forest, including the Grindstone, Upper Lake and Covelo Ranger Districts.

The closure was originally scheduled to lift tomorrow. However, there are more storms forecasted to affect the area through the weekend.

The storms last weekend left trails saturated and muddy. The coming storm systems are likely to bring more water to the forest and trail system.

Using the trails in their current condition would result in damage not only to the trails, but would also impact other resources including soils, water quality and wildlife habitat.

“We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation as the temporary OHV trail system closure is extended for an additional week,” said Forest Supervisor Tom Contreras. “Mendocino National Forest employees recognize the value of the OHV trail system and the opportunities it provides the public and local communities. Waiting for conditions to improve and the trails to dry out will help us continue to provide quality recreation areas for OHV riders.”

The Emergency Trail Closure for the Mendocino National Forest is formally referenced under Order Number 08-10-07.

Violation of this closure order is punishable by a fine of no more than $5,000 for an individual, $10,000 for an organization, or up to six months imprisonment or both.

For more information, please contact the Mendocino National Forest at 530-934-3316 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/mendocino .