DEMING, Wash. – The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is cracking down on illegal activity on Sumas Mountain north of Deming.
DNR spokesman Kenny Ocker says they’ve closed the area to motorized vehicles until further notice.
“We know that it’s such a small subset of people who are actually taking these bad actions, but unfortunately the abuse of these lands is so bad that we’re left with no other recourse,” said Ocker.
He says trash dumping, illegal trails, and unsafe shooting practices are damaging the environment and causing safety issues on the mountain.
The department has spent over $10,000 over the past month removing trash and abandoned vehicles and shutting down unsanctioned trails.
But the mountain isn’t completely closed.
“The lands are still open to non-motorized recreation,” said Ocker. “So, if you want to go ride horses, ride your bike, take a hike, those options are still open. It’s only motorized recreation that is closed.”
DNR says the access roads will reopen on September 1st for hunting season, and could stay open through December if conditions improve.
To listen to the full interview with Kenny Ocker, visit out Podcast page.
