Deschutes County – Deschutes National Forest has closed some of its roads for the winter season.
The agency has closed Forest Road 16 at Upper Three Creek Sno-park and Forest Road 700 in the Three Creek Winter Recreation Area, both in the Sisters Ranger District, according to the Forest Service.
For the Bend-Fort Rock District, the gate accessing Cascade Lakes Welcome Station has now been closed for the season. This parking lot has been a popular access point for the Phil’s Trailhead system and users will need to find alternate parking until the gate and Welcome Station reopen to the public in the spring.
December also brings closures for habitat of deer and elk. Deschutes National Forest has four critical habitat areas that close for animals’ winter range: Cabin/Silver Lake, Metolius Winter Range, Opine Travel Management Area and Tumalo Winter Range.
Deer and elk migrate to lower elevation winter ranges in the fall. Winter range is critical, since those areas have less snow and more vegetation for the animals. Severe winters can strain the animals, and disturbance from people-from additional trail use and development, for instance, can stress them further.
The public is reminded to be cautious when driving on all Forest roads in the winter months. Not all roads will be gated, and those that are blocked by snow or water should be considered impassable for public safety as well as the protection of natural resources. The public needs to be prepared at all times, whether it is a short or long journey into the forest. Please take all precautions as weather and road conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for winter driving, limited sight distance and bumpy driving on all Forest Service roads. Stay prepared for by bringing extra clothing, food, water, blankets, first aid kit, shovel, tire chains and let someone know your destination and expected day/time of return.
For more information on winter range, visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd484975.pdf
