Forest Service reopen recreation sites and trails

RHINELANDER — The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service has terminated a closure order of national park recreation areas and trails that was in place since the large windstorm of July 2019 impacted portions of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, according to a May 9 press release. All recreation areas, trails, and roads that were closed due to the storm are now open.

The windstorm left many roads and trails covered in downed trees and standing hazardous trees in many areas of the southeastern portion of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The Forest Service closed many roads, trails, and recreation sites in this area to protect visitor safety and because many areas were impassable.

“Volunteers, partners and employees have worked diligently for several years so that areas affected by severe storms in 2019 could re-open,” said USDA Forest Service Recreation Program Manager Karen Katz. “We are pleased to announce today that areas that were previously closed due to storm damage are now open again.”

For several years following, USDA FS specialists removed downed trees from roads and trails; removed standing hazard trees; repaired the surfaces of damaged trails; and repaired or replaced broken signs and other infrastructure.

The Jones Spring area is a popular site that was significantly impacted by the blowdown. Recovery of the Jones Springs area was slow as the forest was not successful in awarding a salvage timber sale, a strategy that greatly assisted with storm clean up in other areas.

Many roads and/or portions of roads were closed to motorized vehicles within Langlade and Oconto counties. There were nearly 105 miles of road segments closed due to the storm. This termination lifts that closure order. However, visitors should still consult the current Motor Vehicle Use Map to determine where it is permissible to travel with a motor vehicle.

For more information, call 715-362-1300. Motor vehicle maps are available at district offices and at fs.usda.gov/main/cnnf/maps-pubs.