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Recreation
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- Written by: Editor
The OHV trails on the Grindstone Ranger District reopened on Thanksgiving Day.
As the winter storm season starts and wet weather becomes more common, visitors planning OHV trips to the forest are encouraged to visit the Mendocino National Forest Web site at www.fs.usda.gov/mendocino, or to call the forest at 530-934-3316 to verify that trails are open before traveling.
The closure on the Upper Lake Ranger District is due to the amount of snow remaining and additional precipitation received on the District as recently as yesterday.
An assessment of the trail system this morning by OHV technicians and managers lead to the recommendation that the OHV trail system on the District remain closed until Dec. 2, conditions permitting.
Using the trails in their current condition would result in damage not only to the trails, but would also impact other resources including soils, water quality and wildlife habitat.
“We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation with continuing the temporary OHV trail system closure on the Upper Lake Ranger District,” said Forest Supervisor Tom Contreras. “By closing the trails now and preventing further damage, we are reducing the risk of longer closures for costly repairs and restoration efforts. Waiting for conditions to improve and the trails to dry out will help us continue to provide quality recreation areas for OHV riders.”
The Emergency Trail Closure for the Mendocino National Forest is formally referenced under Order Number 08-10-09.
Violation of this closure order is punishable by a fine of no more than $5,000 for an individual, $10,000 for an organization, or up to six months imprisonment or both.
For more information, please contact the Mendocino National Forest at 530-934-3316 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/mendocino.
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- Written by: Editor
But they’ve also left many roads impassable, brought colder-than-normal temperatures and made it difficult for many visitors to reach their favorite spots to cut a Christmas tree.
With more storms in the forecast, visitors are being asked to use caution and be prepared when going out to the Forest, whether it’s to cut a Christmas tree or enjoy the winter weather.
“Over the past week we have had several people get stuck and require assistance to get out of the forest,” said Forest Supervisor Tom Contreras. “We want visitors to enjoy the forest, but are asking that they do so safely, being aware of changing conditions and not taking unnecessary risks that can lead them to be stranded. With the snow and cold temperatures, an unplanned stay in the forest can be even more dangerous this time of year.”
Following are some tips when planning a trip to the Forest, especially during the winter:
Plan your trip:
Check the weather and road conditions, bring plenty of warm clothes, water, emergency food, tire chains, shovel, sandbags or other necessary traction devices.
Be aware when conditions call for 4-wheel drive and know the mechanical limits of your vehicle.
Make sure you have a full tank of gas when you leave and are prepared for changing conditions in the mountains!
Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to be back.
Take a map and be careful with GPS – they aren’t always up to date with the latest road condition information and can sometimes lead you into trouble.
Help the resources:
Keep vehicles on designated roads and be aware of changing weather and road conditions.
Wet dirt roads can quickly turn to mud, making it possible to get stuck and causing damage to road, soil and water resources.
If there are puddles in the road, mud flipping off the tires or you can see your ruts in the rearview mirror, consider pulling over and taking a hike, or turning around and heading back.
If you get stuck or stranded:
Do not panic! The person you told where you were going and when you were going to be back should report it to the authorities. Stay with your vehicle so you can be found more easily.
Signal distress by using emergency flashers and tying a flag on the antenna or mirror.
Run the engine periodically for warmth, making sure the tailpipe is clear of snow or ice and that a downwind window is open to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you’re cutting a Christmas tree:
Remember a saw to cut the tree with, and a tarp and rope to secure it to your vehicle and help you get it back home safely!
Make sure you are cutting a tree on the Mendocino National Forest and not from other federal, state or private lands and following the regulations on the permit.
Attach the permit on the tree where it will be easily visible with the tree packed or tied on your vehicle for transport home.
To help keep your tree fresh, cut at least one inch off the base when you get home and stand the tree in a container of water in a cool, shaded area, checking the water level daily.
Christmas tree permits are still available for purchase from the Mendocino National Forest and area vendors. Permits are $10 per tree and will be sold through Friday, Dec. 17.
The permits are good through December 24, 2010, and trees may be cut and removed any day of the week in any authorized area of the Mendocino National Forest.
For more information, please contact the Mendocino National Forest at 530-934-3316 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/mendocino.
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- Written by: Editor
Everyone over 10 years of age is encouraged to come and experience the fun and challenge of developing your self-defense skills and personal confidence.
This training offers excellent physical conditioning, through the careful direction of Coach Dave Cavagna.
Cavagna is a USA Boxing Certified Coach, with two black belts (Judo and Hawaiian-style Jujitsu).
He grew up and lives in Lower Lake, and is dedicated to helping others develop their self-defense skills.
Classes meet every Monday and Wednesday from 6:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at Middletown Judo Studio, 15872 Armstrong St. in Middletown.
Find out what boxing can do for you and your family.
Drop by and join in or call Cavagna for further information, 707-513-7943.
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- Written by: Ron Hallman
The results were:
First flight: Olie Smith and Al Burrows tied for first with the lowest nets of the day, 30, while Bill Helt came in third at 33.
Second flight: Jim Brown was first with 31, Mike Casolo and Ron Martinez tied for second one stroke back at 32.
Third flight: Dick Kistner and Don Dornbush tied for first with 33, Tony D'Agosta came in third with 36.
Fourth flight: Tom Sowell was first with 31, and Phil Tyler and Dennis Day tied for second with 34.
Closest to the par 3 pins were Brian Rudy and Bill Helt.
Chip-ins were scored by Jim Hodges, Gary Pickrell, Byron Hoss and Al Burrows.
Forty-four men participated in the day's competition.