As temperatures begin to rise and people want to explore the outdoors, the Forest Service wants to emphasize to citizens to respect roads closures and conditions.

If a road is blocked by a snow drift, travelers should either find a different route or park their vehicles and walk to their destination. According to the Forest Service, the majority of damage done to resources during the spring months are attributed to forest users driving off-road around obstacles like snow drifts. Aaron Voos of the Medicine Bow National Forest Service explains one reason why it is important not to damage natural resources:Aaron Voos Clip on Off-Roading Effects

Travelers should also be mindful that nearly 40 roads on the Pole Mountain unit are closed seasonally from March 1 to May 25, each year. The roads are closed to protect watersheds, the integrity of road beds and big-game birthing areas.

Seasonally closed roads are marked and those traversing through the National Forest should refer to the Pole Mountain Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for details. MVUMs are free and can be obtained either online or at the Forest Service office located at the Laramie District Office, 2468 Jackson St. in Laramie.

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