BLM closes 12,000-acre area to OHV use in aftermath of Stout Fire near Mountain Home

BLM closure area map

Here's a news release from the Bureau of Land Management regarding the temporary closure: 

BOISE, ID – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will temporarily close approximately 11,994 acres of public land to all motorized vehicle use as a result the 2012 Stout Fire. The closure will be in effect for up to two years. Non-motorized recreational access is allowed during the closure.

The closure will allow native vegetation time to recover after the fire. If recently burned areas are regularly disturbed by off-road vehicles, native plants struggle to grow, allowing invasive weeds to establish and erosion to occur. The closure will allow planted shrub, forb and grass species to become established and allow existing plants to recover from the effects of the fire. Allowing the recently burned areas to rest will also help ensure the long-term viability of important habitat for elk, mule deer and sage-grouse.

Temporary closure signs will be posted at key entry points to the burned area.   Anyone violating the closure may be tried before a United States Magistrate and fined, not to exceed $1,000, imprisoned for up to 12 months, or both. Violators may also be subject to the enhanced fines provided for in 18 U.S.C. 3571.

Exempt from this closure are contractors hired by the BLM to work in the area; search and rescue personnel; Federal, State or local law enforcement officials; other employees in the performance of their official duties; and persons with written authorization from the BLM.

If you have questions regarding where to ride OHVs, closure maps are available online http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/advisories-closures.html or visit www.stayontrails.org. A hard copy map is available at the BLM Boise District Office or the Forest Service Mountain Home Ranger District Office (2180 American Legion Blvd., Mountain Home, ID 83647).

For more information, please contact Larry Ridenhour at 208-384-3334.