The San Juan National Forest announced Wednesday seasonal closures in the Dolores, Columbine and Pagosa ranger districts.
The closures apply to wheeled motorized vehicles and some nonmotorized trails.
“Even if snow levels are not deep, wheeled motorized use can damage road surfaces during freezing and thawing periods,” reads an announcement from the Forest Service.
“Seasonal road and trail closures also protect critical habitat for deer and elk in winter and early spring when temperatures are cold, snow is deep and food is scarce. During these critical times, human disturbance can threaten the survival of deer and elk, especially pregnant females.”
Seasonal closures in the Dolores Ranger District began Dec. 1, with more possible depending on snow conditions. These closures protect winter habitat.
Seasonal closures of roads and trails in the Dolores Ranger District started Dec. 1. More closures may be anticipated, dependent upon snow conditions. Closures, meant to protect winter habitat, include:
- National Forest Service Road 328 (Echo Basin area)
- NFSR 504 (Dolores River below McPhee Dam)
- NFSR 528 and 529D (House Creek area)
- NFSR 240 and 241 (Ryman Creek area)
- NFSR 568 (Railroad grade near Mancos Hill and the McPhee Overlook Trail from Dolores to House Creek Campground)
Closures for the Columbine Ranger District are as follows:
- NFSR 578 (Hermosa Park Road). Closed from Nov. 14 to April 30.
- South Mineral, Little Molas and Andrews Lake
Most Forest Service roads will be closed in the Pagosa Ranger District on Dec. 15.
The Forest Service advises people to visit the Motor Vehicle Use Maps and Current Conditions pages for more up-to-date forest road statuses.
