News Release

For Release: December 1, 2008  
Contact: Joanna Wilson (208) 524-7550

Challis BLM Winter Seasonal Closures Start December 16

CHALLIS, ID – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Challis Field Office reminds the public that starting December 16 several locations across in the Challis area will be closed to all motorized vehicles to protect wildlife values.  The closure is scheduled to remain in effect through April 30, 2009, depending on weather conditions.  The closure will affect the following areas:
· Old Stage Road between Highway 93 and the first bridge crossing
· Carlson Hills
· Willow Creek Summit elk winter range on either side of Highway 93
· Donkey Hills Area of Critical Environmental Concern
· Birch Creek Area of Critical Environmental Concern
· Second Spring Basin off Darling Creek Road
 “These closures have been in place since 1999 to protect the winter and spring habitats of elk and big horn sheep,” said Jeff Christenson, BLM Challis Field Office Outdoor Recreation Planner.
For the 2006 Challis BLM Travel Map, which depicts these areas, please contact the Challis Field Office, the Eastern Idaho Visitor Center in Idaho Falls, Idaho BLM State Office or the Salmon Field Office. 

For more information about this closure or other general information within the Challis area, please contact the Challis Field Office at 208-879-6200.

—BLM—