Friday, May 15, 2020

COVID-19 UPDATE - Respect Reopening Process


RESPECT REOPENING PROTOLS

According to a Region 5 news release on May 14, 2020, many Forests will be reopening this weekend in California.  Also, other federal recreation sites throughout the West, including portions of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, will also be reopening.  

QWR believes it is important for OHVers to honor the agency’s request to follow various COVID-19 mitigation measures – including the call to recreate locally - as highlighted in the R5 news release below:

LINK TO REGION 5 REOPENING NEWS RELEAS

VALLEJO,CA  - May 14, 2020—National Forests in California are increasing access to the public by providing additional developed recreational opportunities. National Forest websites and social media pages will have the most up-to-date information on re-openings. Whenever possible, please recreate locally.

Visitors should practice self-sufficiency when visiting national forests and come prepared with all the essentials needed for a day trip, including food, emergency supplies, and the ability to pack-out trash. Remember to recreate responsibly by keeping the following in mind:

  • Maintaining at least six feet distancing from others
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  • Do not gather in groups and follow the latest guidance from health officials
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  • Communicate with others as you pass. Alert trail users of your presence and step aside to let others pass
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  • Pack out your trash and leave with everything you bring in and use


Recreating responsibly will help ensure that expanded access to recreational facilities, services, and opportunities continue. Certain services may still be unavailable, please plan accordingly.

Since many units are operating at a reduced capacity due to furloughed or sick staff, cleaning or PPE shortages, etc., QWR believes it is important for OHVers to come with their own hand sanitizers and toilet paper per chance toilets are still closed or have not been cleaned or stocked.

The loss of recreational opportunity due to COVID-19 closures has been hard on both the user community and agency staff. The crisis has also interrupted those dynamic on-the-ground partnerships that help keep our riding areas managed and open.

Respecting the various COVID-19 mitigation measure recommended by land agencies in coordination with local and state officials will help them remain open though the summer and expedite additional reopening of state and federal OHV recreation areas.

*Make sure you call or check the website of any unit you plan to ride or camp at BEFORE  you leave.

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