National Forests in New Mexico Close Developed Recreation Sites To Protect Public Health- March 23, 2020
The five national forests in New Mexico, including the Lincoln National Forest, will begin the orderly closure of developed recreation sites as early as Monday, March 23, to protect public health, and align with state and local measures already in place to contain the COVID-19 outbreak.
Although campgrounds, day-use sites, restrooms and other developed recreation facilities on the Carson, Cibola, Gila, Lincoln and Santa Fe National Forests are likely to be closed, the vast majority of the forests will still be available to visitors who want to spend time outdoors. At this time, recreation opportunities include hiking and biking on trails, dispersed camping and other activities that support social distancing and small groups.
The Lincoln National Forest asks members of the public to recreate responsibly by avoiding high-risk activities, like rock climbing, that increase the chance of injury or distress. Law enforcement and search and rescue operations may be limited due to COVID-19. In addition, we ask visitors to bring home their trash (pack it in, pack it out), and appropriately manage human waste by burying it at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet away from water, trails and recreation sites. Visit the Interactive Visitor Map at https://www.fs.fed.us/ivm/ for more information on available activities.
“The decision to close facilities was difficult,” Lincoln National Forest Supervisor Travis Moseley said. “However, given the current circumstances, we feel it critical to limit access to locations that draw large numbers of people into close proximity with each other. Thank you for your patience and support while we work to protect the public.”
The developed recreation site closures will remain in effect until further notice. The Forest Service thanks all New Mexicans, visitors, and partners for their cooperation. Please report any instances of vandalism to facilities to the local ranger district office.
All Lincoln National Forest offices are conducting business and providing services virtually. The Lincoln National Forest will continue to coordinate its COVID-19 response in alignment with all federal, state and local guidance. Visitors to national forests in New Mexico are urged to take the precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and to follow guidelines set forth by state officials. For tips from the CDC on preventing illnesses like the coronavirus, go to: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention.html.
