Mountain Home Ranger District temporarily closes roads for upcoming tree planting

As part of the ongoing reforestation effort for the 2013 Elk Complex fires, the Mountain Home Ranger District will temporarily close National Forest System (NFS) Roads to plow them in preparation for spring planting of various conifer species, primarily ponderosa pine.

The roads are closed to motorized use (wheeled vehicles and snowmobiles) to provide for public safety, prevent road damage and to protect wintering wildlife during the Elk Reforestation effort on roads typically inaccessible during this time of year.

The Elk wildfire burned hot and consumed most of the trees so planting is needed to accelerate the establishment of ponderosa pine. Other areas within the Elk wildfire are expected to be planted for several more years.

NFS roads affected include 128 (Lester Creek road), 129 (Fall Creek road), 118 (Stavely Creek road), and 103 (No Name Creek). The closures are in effect beginning April 2 through June 15, 2019, unless rescinded earlier by the Forest Supervisor.

Any violation of this order is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, and/or imprisonment for not more than six months.

For specific details and a map visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/boise/alerts-notices

For more information, contact the Mountain Home Ranger District at 208-587-7961.