URE is Closed

[neslrac]

As a safety precaution, the forest service has closed Arrowhead, Baden, Group Camp, Kings Mountain Point and all Horse camps until further notice. Even the horse camp fields are closed. Don't ask me why, but all gates are closed and locked. I guess one could spread the virus in the wilderness. I can't even walk the Kings Mountain loop anymore. I am all for precaution but I don't understand this decision.

 

[JohnVee]

I'd imagine it stems from a fear of being sued if someone dies from the virus and the point of infection can be traced, more or less, to the Forest. "Why didn't the gubment protect my client from himself like every other business did?"

Or, maybe it's possible that they anticipate large numbers of city people to flee to the "safety" of campsites in the woods.

 

[JohnVee]

Oh, in regards to the thread title, is the entire forest closed or just the sites you mentioned?

 

[Jaeco]

I’m wondering if the forest service roads inside URE themselves are closed? I was hoping to get away to Deep Water area for an overnighter in a week or so.

 

[Whiskerz]

The closed the road at the national park near my house today as well. Paved road with parking for about 10 cars at the top of a mountain. Makes no sense

 

[neslrac]

As best I can tell, the State roads in the forest are open so you can still get to deep water. All trails, camps and day use areas are closed. The boat ramp on cove road is still open. I looked into this further and understand the logic. Its more a federal employee safety decision. They don't want people from outside who could be infected coming to the forest. I read a good article from a national park worker in Alaska who resigned yesterday because his supervisors would not close the park. Stay isolated and stay safe.

 

[neslrac]

This is the article that opened my eyes. Guess one must walk in another shoes to understand.

 

[onemanarmy]

If I get laid off from my current job, I'll volunteer to help the the wilderness 'open'
Typical take it to Reddit and try to get some upvotes. That's rewarding. I hope all those instagram likes make him feel safer in this big and scary world!

 

[Fort Knox]

All trails, camps and day use areas are closed.

I hadn't seen that the trails themselves are closed. Is that confirmed? @neslrac

 

[jamesurq]

yeah i saw the day use areas around the campgrounds and the campgrounds themselves were closed but I didn't see mention of the trail system itself.

 

[neslrac]

Terry,
Are the horse and hiking trails still open? Also, will the OHV trails still be opened on April 1st or is that going to be postponed?

Thanks,
Kurt

Savery, Theresa -FS
Mon, Mar 23, 6:19 PM (16 hours ago)
to me, Theresa

Hi Kurt - Yes, the equestrian, hiking & mtn biking trails on the Uwharrie NF are still open. At this time we are planning to open the OHV trails on April 1st. If that changes we will notify the public. Also, as of tomorrow the Flintlock Valley Shooting Range will be closed following the NCWRC's direction. Take it easy. Bye - Terry

 

[jamesurq]

At this time we are planning to open the OHV trails on April 1st.

 

[uzj100]

Ready.

 

[lt1fire]

on my way

 

[izzyandsue]

Looks like trails are now shutdown until May 15th.

 

[jamesurq]

 

[neslrac]

Hi Everyone – I wanted to let you know that volunteer activities have been suspended at this time in North Carolina on all National Forests. Please see the link below for the press information. We appreciate all of your help and support over the years and want to make sure you all stay safe.



National Forests in North Carolina - News & Events



I will let you know when our facilities are reopened and when volunteering activities will resume. Thank you. Bye - Terry





Theresa Stevens Savery (Terry)

MS Forest Resources / Watershed Management

District Recreation Staff Officer