MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – The Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trail system on the Upper Lake Ranger District of the Mendocino National Forest will be closed to vehicle traffic until Thursday, Jan. 6, or until 48 hours of no measurable precipitation.

The trails were closed Dec. 17 after the Bartlett Springs Remote Automated Weather Station (RAWS) recorded more than 3 inches of precipitation in 24 hours.

There needs to be 48 consecutive hours of no measurable precipitation to reopen the trails. This has not occurred since Dec. 17.

If there is a period of 48 hours with no measurable precipitation, the trails will open before Jan. 6. If not, the closure may be extended.

As the winter storm season starts and wet weather becomes more common, visitors planning OHV trips to the forest are encouraged to visit the Mendocino National Forest Web site at www.fs.usda.gov/mendocino, or to call the forest at 530-934-3316 to verify that trails are open before traveling.

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 with continuing the temporary OHV trail system closure on the Upper Lake Ranger District,” said Forest Supervisor Tom Contreras. “By closing the trails now and preventing further damage, we are reducing the risk of longer closures for costly repairs and restoration efforts. 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 08-10-13.

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.