Nevada City, Calif. — The Tahoe National Forest has issued a Forest System Road Closure Order postponing the opening of all Off Highway Vehicle routes scheduled to open prior to April 30, 2020. This Forest System Road Closure applies to all trails, roads and routes specified in the 2010 Record of Decision for the Tahoe National Forest’s Motorized Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement and as posted on the Tahoe National Forest’s Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM). This Forest System Road Closure Order is effective April 1, 2020 through April 30, 2020, or until rescinded.
A considerable amount of rain and snow occurred during the month of March, 2020, across the Tahoe National Forest. Off Highway Vehicle use during these wet weather conditions where soils are saturated enough to rut and channel water, or otherwise contribute sediment to water courses, can result in degradation of water quality. Additionally, OHV use when soils are wet can cause an increase in damage to road or trail surfaces, resulting in a loss of short- and long-term road or trail sustainability. Short-term resource protection is required to protect water quality, municipal watersheds, and soil conditions.
This Forest System Road Closure will protect the trail and roadbed from damage during the overly wet conditions, reduce maintenance costs, and protect the quality of the water. Restrictions during the wet weather season will reduce the potential for adverse effects on the aforementioned resources. Persons holding a valid permit will be authorized to access these areas. This decision will be implemented immediately to reduce potential impacts to the resources. The Forest System Road Closure will continue until April 30, 2020, unless conditions allow for termination of the order on an earlier date.
For more information please contact Joe Chavez, Tahoe National Forest Trail Program Manager, at joe.chavez@usda.gov or call (530) 265-4531 and select option 1.