News Release USDA Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region

National Forest System Road 2207 Temporarily Closed Due To Mudslide

Date: November 21, 2008
Contact: Detroit Ranger District 503-854-3366
Media Contact: Jennifer O'Leary 503-854-4210

Detroit, OR -- A mudslide that occurred on the Detroit Ranger District earlier this week is preventing through-travel on National Forest System Road 2207. Road 2207 links French Creek Road with Forest Service Road 2209, also known as the Little North Fork Road. The slide is located approximately three miles north of the French Creek Road intersection.

The mudslide has left nearly 300 feet of the road covered with mud and debris. The road is expected to remain blocked for several months and possibly longer as Forest Service crews wait for the slide area to stabilize and for suitable weather conditions to allow crews to make repair assessments. The cause of the slide is unknown although recent heavy rains and unstable soils are believed to be contributing factors. Visitors are encouraged to avoid the affected areas due to public safety concerns related to the potential for more slide activity.

For more information please call the Detroit Ranger District at (503) 854-3366 or visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/willamette/.