News Release

For Release: November 24, 2008  
Contact: Joanna Wilson (208) 524-7550

Stinking Springs Area Closure Begins December 1

IDAHO FALLS, ID – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Upper Snake Field Office reminds the public that the Stinking Springs area near the popular South Fork of the Snake River will be closed to all motorized vehicles and human entry beginning December 1. The closure is scheduled to remain in effect through April 30, 2009, depending on weather conditions.

Increasing human activity in the Stinking Springs area is creating additional stress on the fragile mule deer population that winter in the area, requiring them to use up their supply of stored winter fat more quickly than normal. “We appreciate the public’s help in staying away from the closure area to help protect these sensitive animals,” said Monica Zimmerman, BLM Upper Snake Outdoor Recreation Planner. 

The closure applies to other BLM lands in the vicinity of Stinking Springs and the U.S. Forest Service winter closures on National Forest lands.  It is advisable to check with agency offices before planning travel on these lands. 

For more information, please contact Monica Zimmerman or Wendy Reynolds at the BLM Upper Snake Field Office at 208-524-7500.

—BLM—