News Releases - Please also be sure to review our Special Orders page for road, trail or area restriction information.

• Interface Fuels Stewardship Sale Begins February 1st The Nez Perce-Clearwater Forests will be starting the Interface Fuels stewardship sale on February 1, 2012.(1/30/12)
  
  
• Analysis indicates Kamiah is most advantageous site for Forest Headquarters An analysis of potential Forest headquarters locations for the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests has concluded that locating the future Forest Supervisor’s Office in Kamiah is the “most advantageous alternative” to pursue.(1/26/12)
  
  
• Selway-Bitterroot Frank Church Wilderness Foundation Hosts 6th Annual Gathering in Lewiston The Selway-Bitterroot Frank Church Foundation is sponsoring its sixth Annual Winter Gathering and Fundraiser Saturday, February 4, from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Orchid Room, upstairs at Morgan's Alley, 301 Main St., Lewiston.(1/20/12)
  
  
• Selway River Road #223 to close for construction Construction work for the replacement of an existing undersized culvert at Twentythree Mile Creek is scheduled to start January 30, 2012. (1/13/12)
  
  
• The Nez Perce and Clearwater Forest offices will be closed on Monday, January 16, 2012 in observance of Martin Luther King Day. Offices will be open for normal business on Tuesday, January 17. (1/9/12)
  
  
• Forest Service extends comment period for the Upper Lochsa Land Exchange
  Rick Brazell, Forest Supervisor for the Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forests, has extended the comment period for Upper Lochsa Land Exchange Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement an additional 30 days.(1/9/12)
  
  
• Clearwater Forest Issues Travel Plan Decision
  With public comments analyzed and analysis completed, Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest Supervisor Rick Brazell has decided how motorized uses will be managed on roads and trails within the boundaries of the 1.8-million-acre Clearwater National Forest.(1/3/12)
  
  
• Kamiah-Pierce Road #100 has reopened
  Forest Service Road #100, also called Tom Taha Road or Glenwood Road, has reopened. (12/16/11)
  
  
• Lolo Pass Visitor Center Changing to Winter Hours
  The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Idaho-Montana state line along U.S. Highway 12, is changing to a winter schedule. (12/02/11)
  
  
• Nez Perce - Clearwater National Forests offices closed Thanksgiving Day
  All Nez Perce - Clearwater National Forest offices will close on Thursday, November 24 to observe Thanksgiving Day. Offices will resume normal business hours on Friday, November 25. The employees of both Forests extend our best wishes for a holiday filled with joy and treasured moments. (11/21/11)
  
  
• Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement for land exchange available
  A Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Upper Lochsa Land Exchange is now available for public review and comment. (11/14/11)
  
  
• Christmas Tree Permits Available at Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests
  Permits are required for each Christmas tree you are going to cut. (11/14/11)
  
  
• Nez Perce-Clearwater Forests Welcome New Culturist
  Debbie Bhattacharya recently joined the Palouse Ranger District in Potlatch, Idaho as their new Culturist. (11/9/11)
  
  
• Kooskia Ranger Station has changed to winter hours
  The Lochsa Ranger District’s Kooskia office has changed to a winter schedule.
  Effective immediately, hours of operation will be Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Pacific Standard Time. For more information, contact the Kooskia Ranger Station at (208)926-4274. (11/9/11)
  
  
• Forest offices closed for Veterans Day holiday
  All Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forest offices will close Friday, November 11 in observance of the Veterans Day holiday. (11/7/11)
  
  
• Why the Upper Lochsa?
  Guest Editorial by Rick Brazell, Supervisor of Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forests. (10/31/11)
  
  
• Forest Offices Closed for Columbus Day Holiday
  Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forest offices will be closed on Monday, October 10 to observe the Columbus Day Holiday. Offices will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, October 11.
  (10/3/11)
  
  
• Lolo Pass Visitor Center Changing to Fall Hours
  The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Idaho-Montana state line along U.S. Highway 12, is changing to a fall schedule. (9/26/11)
  
  
• Kamiah-Pierce Road #100 to close for construction
  Construction work for the replacement of two large culverts on Glenwood Road, which crosses Tom Taha Creek, is scheduled to start October 3. (9/20/11)
  
  
• Upper Lochsa Land Exchange process enters new phase
  The Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forests published a “Notice of Exchange Proposal” in the Lewiston Tribune September 9, 2011. (9/16/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 16, 2011
  Fire staff reported anywhere from .02 to ½ inch of rain received on their districts from last night’s rain showers. (9/16/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 15, 2011
  High pressure will break down today as a cold front makes its way into the region. Most districts will have a chance for showers today. (9/15/11)
  
  
• Forest Service campgrounds close on the Palouse and North Fork Ranger Districts
  All developed campgrounds on the Clearwater National Forest’s Palouse and North Fork Ranger Districts have closed for the season. (9/14/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 14, 2011
  Local area weather forecasts are predicting a wind event on Thursday, and fire staff are prepared to respond to wildfire activity on the Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forests. (9/14/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 13, 2011
  Although evenings are cool, even freezing, the lack of precipitation has greatly influenced the East Fork Fire, which has grown generally in all directions to an estimated 8,000 acres. (9/13/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 12, 2011
  Red River Ranger District’s East Fork Fire grew significantly in size this weekend and is currently 7500 acres. (9/12/11)
  
  
• Hunters should check National Forest road and trail conditions before heading for the hills
  Fall is in the air, and the end of summer marks the start of hunting season on the Nez Perce – Clearwater National Forests. (9/9/11)
  
  
• Nez Perce-Clearwater Fire Zone Update (Powell Ranger District) - September 9, 2011 (9/9/11)
  
  
• Nez Perce-Clearwater Fire Zone Update - Sisters Complex/Black Mountain Trail Closure - September 9, 2011
  The Sisters Complex Fire on the North Fork Ranger District has crossed Trail 396, and the trail is now closed to the public for safety concerns. The closure is from the trailhead at Canyon (Road 247) to Trail 685 (Black Lake). Please see attached closure order and map. (9/9/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 9, 2011
  The North Fork Ranger District has picked up 2 new fires this week bringing the total to thirty-six wildfires since the August 28 lightning storm. (9/9/11)
  
  
• Crooked Fork Contour Road Closed for Culvert Installation
  Crooked Fork Contour Road #595 on the Powell Ranger District will be closed for installation of an aquatic organism passage culvert. (9/9/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 8, 2011
  The stagnant high pressure the Nez Perce-Clearwater Fire Zone is experiencing will continue throughout this week with temperatures ten to fifteen degrees above normal. (9/8/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 7, 2011
  The Red River Ranger District on the Nez Perce National Forest picked up one new fire this afternoon. (9/7/11)
  
  
• Campfire Safety Reminders
  Forest Service officials would like to remind visitors to the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests that fire danger remains high. (9/6/11)
  
  
• Nez Perce-Clearwater Fire Zone Smoke Management Update
  (9/6/11)
  
  
• Dan Lee Connection Road Closed for Logging and Biomass Activity
  The Dan Lee Connection Road 5141 on the Lochsa Ranger District is closed for public safety due to logging activity on the roadway. (9/2/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 2, 2011
  Two new fires were reported on the Nez Perce-Clearwater Fire zone this morning, both of those on the Lochsa Ranger District. (9/2/11)
  
  
• NezPerce Clearwater Fire Zone Update - September 1, 2011
  Cooler temperatures, increased humidities and spotty precipitation slowed the spread of fires on the Nez Perce-Clearwater Fire Zone yesterday. (9/1/11)
  
  
• French Mountain Road #250 has reopened; Road #247 scheduled to close to through traffic
  Forest Service Road #250 over French Mountain has reopened. (8/31/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update - August 31, 2011
  The North Fork Ranger District on the Clearwater National Forest picked up 26 new fires from the Sunday night (8/28/11) lightning storm.
  (8/31/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update - August 30, 2011
  The North Fork Ranger District on the Clearwater National Forest picked up the most initial attack fires on the zone with a total of 24 as of this morning.
  (8/30/11)
  
  
• Nez Perce - Clearwater National Forests Welcome Labor Day Visitors
  You’ll find plenty of places to camp, picnic and play on the Nez Perce – Clearwater National Forests over the Labor Day holiday.
  (8/29/11)
  
  
• Logging Activity on Lochsa Ranger District
  The Clearwater National Forest has significant sale activity on the Lochsa Ranger District. Forest timber staff reported there are three operational sales (two stewardship contracts and one conventional timber sale). (8/29/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update - August 29, 2011
  A magnificent lightning storm visited the Clear/Nez Fire Zone on Sunday night, bringing with it various amounts of precipitation in the higher elevation areas and several reports of new smokes in other areas.
  (8/29/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update - August 28, 2011
  Although no new fires were detected Saturday, the Red Flag Warning for thunderstorms with attendant gusty winds issued by the National Weather Service in Missoula for today has put firefighting personnel on heightened alert. (8/28/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update - August 27, 2011
  Fire activity around the Clear/Nez Fire Zone was light Friday, giving firefighters a good opportunity to make progress on remaining suppression fires and to catch new starts before they spread. (8/27/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update - August 26, 2011
  The Clear/Nez Fire Zone picked upon 18 new fires as a result of Wednesday night’s storms, but strong initial attack by firefighters significantly reduced concerns. (8/26/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update - August 25, 2011
  Lightning strikes occurred all around the Clear/Nez Fire Zone last night, with most of the activity being on the Salmon River Ranger District and initial attack operations are taking place there today. (8/25/11)
  
  
• Clearwater National Forest Road #100 Closed for Culvert Installation
  Forest Road #100 (Kamiah Pierce Road between Peterson Corner and Pierce) is closed for installation of an Aquatic Organism Passage Culvert. (8/24/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update - August 24, 2011
  The Running Fire has been swallowed up by the East Fork Fire, which grew to an estimated 2,500 acres by this afternoon, increasing primarily to the east with long-range spotting to the northeast. (8/24/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update - August 23, 2011
  The warm, dry, windy weather the fire zone experienced Monday evening brought the East Fork Fire to life and it is currently 1000 acres. (8/23/11)
  
  
• Forest Service plans prescribed burning near Middle Butte and Weitas Guard Station
  Clearwater National Forest’s Lochsa Ranger District will conduct prescribed burning operations during the months of August and September. (8/23/11)
  
  
• Fish Lake Trail #419 has reopened
  Fish Lake Trail #419, located 15 miles south of Hoodoo Pass, near the Idaho-Montana state line, has reopened to motorized traffic following a month-long administrative closure. Trail users are reminded to practice multi-use trail etiquette and show courtesy to all users. (8/10/11)
  
  
• French Mountain Road #250 temporarily closed
  A short section of Forest Service Road #250 over French Mountain has closed to through traffic while contractors replace three damaged culverts. (8/10/11)
  
  
• Prescribed Burning Planned on the North Fork
  and Moose Creek Ranger Districts
  Fire Staff on the North Fork Ranger District of the Clearwater National Forest will be initiating ignition operations (August 12) on Long Creek and Pollack Ridge. (8/9/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update
  The Van Creek Fire grew to 370 acres and is 50% contained. (8/9/11)
  
  
• Kathy Rodriguez is New North Fork District Ranger
  Kathy Rodriguez recently joined the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests’ staff as the new District Ranger at the North Fork Ranger District located in Orofino. Her effective date to start work is August 15. (8/8/11)
  
  
• Cooperative Smoke Message
  During the summer and fall, local and regional fires affect air quality. (8/8/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Update
  Fire crews were kept busy suppressing wildfires and managing resource benefit fires on the Clear/Nez Fire Zone this past weekend. (8/8/11)
  
  
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Picks Up Fire Activity
  The Clear/Nez Fire Zone is experiencing lightning activity from storms coming out of the south on the Payette National Forest. (8/4/11)
• Road and Trail Blowdown Conditions on the Clearwater National Forest
  The 500 Road on the Clearwater National Forest is blocked by trees between Castle Butte and Liz Butte---starting today road and trail crews are working from the west end (Pete Forks) and an Idaho Department of Corrections (IDOC) crew will be working towards them from Saddle Camp starting Thursday. (8/2/11)
  
  
• Road Improvement Projects Scheduled to Begin on Clearwater National Forest
  Several paving and road repair projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) are to take place on the Clearwater National Forest. (7/25/11)
  
  
• French Mountain Road #250 to close temporarily
  Starting August 1, a short section of Forest Service Road #250 over French Mountain will close to through traffic while contractors replace three damaged culverts. Construction is taking place at mileposts 5 and 9, near Rosebud Creek, a few miles east of Pierce, ID. The closure is expected to last until August 29 but will remain in effect until rescinded. Road closure signs will be posted in advance to alert the public.
  Acting North Fork District Ranger Heather Berg asks for the public’s patience and cooperation with using detours while the project is in full swing. Forest Service Road #247, the Beaver Creek Road, is the best choice for commercial traffic, motorhomes and vehicles pulling trailers. Drivers with high-clearance vehicles can take Road #669 by way of Shanghai Divide. Forest visitors can also access the North Fork Clearwater River country from the north, via Hoodoo Pass. (7/20/11)
  
• Fish Lake Trail #419 temporarily closed to motorized vehicles
  The popular Fish Lake Trail #419, located 15 miles south of Hoodoo Pass, near the Idaho-Montana state line, has closed to motorized traffic. (7/19/11)

• Chip Sealing/Repaving Planned for Powell and Wilderness Gateway Campgrounds
  There is a possibility that the scheduled chip sealing / repaving of the Powell Campground on the Clearwater National Forest (NF) will occur from July 26 - August 11, 2011 or from August 15 - 26, 2011. (7/19/11)
  
• Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement being prepared for proposed land exchange
  The Forest Service has signed an addendum to the 2008 feasibility analysis for the Upper Lochsa Land Exchange. The addendum takes a closer look at the federal lands recently proposed for exchange by the Idaho County Commissioners. (7/15/11)
• Lewis and Clark Re-enactors Visit Lolo Pass
  The Clearwater National Forest’s Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Idaho-Montana state line along U.S. Highway 12, will host the Traveler's Rest Brigade at Lolo Pass on July 23 & 24. (7/14/11)
  
  
• North American Pack Goat Association Volunteers Help Clear Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
  Windfelled trees and brush were cleared from 2 ½ miles of Clearwater Forest’s Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, between Small Prairie Camp and the Dollar Creek Bridge. (7/12/11)
  
  
• Fourth of July Pack Bridge due for Contract Maintenance
  A suspension bridge that crosses the North Fork Clearwater River has been closed to all uses due to concerns about safety and construction activity. Construction activity to begin 7/8/2011.
  
  
• Packer Meadow Camas update: as of July 5th, the meadow is at about half bloom. The Powell Ranger District expects the meadow to be in full bloom approximately July 8-11th. For further information, contact the Powell Ranger Station, Monday through Friday, at 208-942-3113.(7/5/11).
  

• Nez Perce - Clearwater National Forests welcome 4th of July visitors
  (6/27/11)
  
  
• Palouse District campgrounds scheduled to close during paving projects
  Beginning July 7, three developed campgrounds on the Nez Perce -Clearwater National Forests’ Palouse Ranger District will undergo a series of paving projects. To ensure visitor safety, the campgrounds will close, one at a time, until the work is completed on July 30. (6/23/11)
  
  
• North Fork Ranger District hosts summer campground programs
  Summer has finally arrived, so pack up the family and spend a weekend camping in the Clearwater National Forest! (6/23/11)
  
  
• Logging activity begins on the Palouse Ranger District
  Large-scale logging and timber sale activity is currently underway on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests’ Palouse Ranger District. Forest timber staff recently confirmed five operational sales, including one stewardship contract and four conventional timber sales.
  (6/23/11)
  
  
• Fourth of July Pack Bridge closed due to safety concerns
  A suspension bridge that crosses the North Fork Clearwater River has been closed to all uses due to concerns about safety. (6/21/11)
  
  
• Plan ahead for summer trips to the North Fork Ranger District
  In 2010, the Clearwater National Forest awarded many construction and maintenance contracts funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Much of the contracted work is still underway on the North Fork Ranger District. The projects involve bridge repair and maintenance, road resurfacing, culvert replacements and recreation site improvements. Short traffic delays, detours and road closures can be expected, but once the work is completed, access to recreational destinations will be safer and more enjoyable to forest visitors. The improvements will also help to lessen impacts on the environment.
  
  
• Lolo Pass Visitor Center announces temporary road closures
  The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Idaho-Montana state line along U.S. Highway 12, will host the annual Mountain to Meadow Half Marathon and 5K Fun Run on Saturday, June 25, 2011. To better ensure the safety of race participants, Forest Service Roads #373 (Packer Meadows Road), #5671 (Packer Ridge Road) and #5670 (Packer Creek Road) will close to motorized use from 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., PDT, on June 25.
  For more information regarding the Mountain to Meadow Half Marathon and 5K Fun Run, visit www.runlolopass.org. The registration deadline is June 22.
  For Lolo Pass travel and recreation updates, call the visitor information line at (208) 942-1234. For information about road, trail and campground conditions on the Powell Ranger District, contact the Powell Ranger Station at (208)942-3113. (6/16/11)

• Cold, Wet Weather Delays Road and Trail Openings on National Forests
  Higher than usual snowpack, landslides, storms and continuing cold weather have delayed the opening of many roads and trails on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. (6/8/11)
  
  
• Weitas Creek Bridge Closed to Travel
  Clearwater National Forests Supervisor Rick Brazell announced today that public safety concerns have prompted closure of the Weitas Creek Bridge on the Clearwater National Forest’s North Fork Ranger District. (6/8/11)
  
  
• Powell Ranger Station changing to summer hours
  The Powell Ranger Station, located along U.S. Highway 12, 12 miles west of the Idaho-Montana state line, has switched to a summertime schedule. (6/8/11)
  
  
• Lolo Pass Visitor Center changing to summer hours
  The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located along U.S. Highway 12 on the Idaho-Montana state line, will open for the summer recreation season starting June 5, 2011 (5/27/11)
  
  
• Storm damage closes trail at the DeVoto Grove Interpretive Site
  A nature trail within the DeVoto Memorial Cedar Grove, located 50 miles west of Missoula, MT along U.S. Highway 12, has closed temporarily due to storm damage. (5/24/11)
• Brown Bag Presentations Planned for June
  The Nez Perce-Clearwater Forests are hosting four Brown Bag presentations during the month of June and invite the public to join employees – bring your sack lunch. (5/24/11)
  
  
• Memorial Day on the Nez Perce – Clearwater National Forests
  Memorial Day Weekend signals campground openings on the Nez Perce - Clearwater National Forests. (5/23/11)
  
  
• Fire Management in the Salmon River Canyon
  The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests will be hosting a public meeting at 6:00 MST on Thursday June 2, 2011 in Riggins at the Best Western Salmon Rapids Lodge to discuss fire management in the Salmon River Canyon. (5/23/11)
• Clearwater National Forest to Implement the Lochsa Thin Project
  Rick Brazell, Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest Supervisor has decided to implement Alternative 2 of the Lochsa Thin Environmental Assessment. (5/18/11)
  
  
• Morris Creek Culvert Installation Work Resumes
  A&K Construction of Peck, ID will resume work on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) project "Morris Creek Deep Fill Culvert Installations" on May 23, 2011. (5/16/11)
  
  
• Special Presentation Scheduled at Clearwater Forest Supervisor’s Office
  May is Idaho Archaeology Month. The public is invited to a free presentation, “Prehistory of the Upper North Fork” by Dr. Lee Sappington. (5/10/11)
  
  
• Palouse Ranger District Campgrounds to open May 20
  All developed campgrounds on the Clearwater National Forest’s Palouse Ranger District will open on Friday, May 20, in time for Memorial Day Weekend. (5/9/11)
  
  
• Idaho Archaeology and Historic Preservation Month
  During the month of May we celebrate Idaho Archaeology and Historic Preservation Month. (4/25/11)
  
  
• Beaver Creek Road reopens for public use
  Forest Service Road 247, also known as the Beaver Creek Road, has reopened following a month-long administrative closure.
  (4/14/11)
  
  
• Forest Service Is Paid Full Restitution for Resource Damage
  The US Forest Service recently was paid full restitution in United States District Court concerning a resource damage case involving a fraternity from the University of Idaho.
  (4/4/11)
  
  
• Firewood and Mushroom Permits Available
  A permit is required to gather firewood for personal use on national forest land. Permits will be available April 1 at national forest offices and some local businesses. (3/24/11)
• North Central Idaho RAC Meetings Rescheduled
  The North Central Idaho Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) has rescheduled their meetings for the months of March and April, 2011. (3/14/11)
  

• Forest Offices Closed President’s Day
  Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forest offices will close on Monday, February 21, to observe President’s Day. (2/14/11)
  
  
• Cara Farr Joins the Clearwater-Nez Perce Forest
  Cara Farr is the new Soil Scientist for the Clearwater-Nez Perce National Forest and will be stationed in the Grangeville area. (2/11/11)
  
  
• Free Clinics: Weed Control
  Two free clinics will be offered in February to help individuals learn about noxious weeds and how to control them. The workshops are hosted by the Clearwater Basin Cooperative Weed Management Area (CBCWMA). (2/10/11)
  
  
• Selway-Bitterroot Foundation Hosts Fifth Annual Gathering in Lewiston
  The Selway-Bitterroot Foundation is sponsoring their “Fifth Annual Winter Gathering and Fundraiser” Friday, February 11, from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the Orchid Room (upstairs at Morgan’s Alley), 301 Main Street, Lewiston. (1/30/11)
  
  
• Susan Shaw, Palouse District Ranger
  Susan Shaw is the new District Ranger for the Palouse Ranger District located in Potlatch, Idaho. (1/26/11)
  
  
• Forest Service extends comment period for the Upper Lochsa Land Exchange
  Rick Brazell, Forest Supervisor for the Clearwater and Nez Perce National Forests, has extended the comment period for Upper Lochsa Land Exchange Draft Environmental Impact Statement by two weeks to March 9, 2011. (1/26/11)
  
  
• Forest Offices Closed Martin Luther King Day
  Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forest offices will close on Monday, January 17, to observe Martin Luther King Day. Offices will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, January 18. (1/10/11)
  
  
• Forests Applying For Idaho Department of Parks & Rrecreation Grant Funding
  The Clearwater and Nez Perce National Forests are currently applying for grant funding from the State of Idaho Parks and Recreation’s Recreational Vehicle (RV), Recreation Trails Program (RTP), and Off Road Motor Vehicle (ORMV and Motorbike Recreation Account) Programs. (1/10/11)
  
  
• North Central Idaho RAC Announces 2011 Meeting Schedule
  A series of meetings and proposal deadlines have been established by the North Central Idaho Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) over the next several months to select projects for funding. (1/7/11)
  
  
• Forest Service schedules informational open houses
  Individuals with questions about the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Upper Lochsa Land Exchange are invited to attend any of the four informational open houses scheduled the second week in January. (12/22/10)
  
  
• Forest Offices Closed Christmas Eve
  Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forest offices will close on Friday, December 24, to observe the Christmas holiday. Offices will resume normal business hours on Monday, December 27. (12/20/10)
  
  
• Lolo Pass Visitor Center Changing to Winter hours
  The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Idaho-Montana state line along U.S. Highway 12, is changing to a winter schedule. (11/30/10)
• Upper Lochsa Land Exchange alternatives released for public review and comment
  A draft environmental impact statement which details four “action” alternatives for completing the Upper Lochsa Land Exchange is now available for public review and comment. (11/22/10)
• Gathering Firewood for Your Personal Use
  Forest Service staff would like to remind the public to review the “Special Conditions” on your firewood permit carefully. Below is basic information you should know before you cut firewood on your national forest. (11/19/10)
• Christmas Tree Permits Available
  The Christmas season is quickly approaching; it’s time to plan an outing to choose the family Christmas tree. (11/17/10)
• North Central Idaho RAC Meeting Scheduled for November 4, 2010
  The North Central Idaho Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) meeting is scheduled for November 4, 2010 beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Potlatch Library in Potlatch, Idaho. (10/25/10)
• National Forest surveys coming to a location near you
  For the next twelve months, Forest visitors are being asked to provide information that will shape recreation opportunities on the Clearwater and Nez Perce National Forests now and in the future. (10/08/10)
• Public Encouraged to Submit Challenge Cost Share Applications
  For Nez Perce National Historic Trail Projects
  The public is encouraged to propose projects designed to improve and enhance the visitor’s experience along the Nez Perce National Historic Trail (NPNHT). The submitted projects will be considered for the 2011 project year funding. Project funding was made available through funds designated to administer the Nez Perce National Historic Trail. Completed applications must be post marked by November 30, 2010. (9/30/10)

• Forest visitors advised to check status of North Fork Ranger District roads
  Individuals planning a autumn outing or hunting trip to the North Fork Ranger District, Clearwater National Forest, are advised to check the status of their favorite backcountry roads before heading to the woods. (10/1/10)

• Fall burning begins on the Powell Ranger District
  Warm temperatures and dry weather have created conditions conducive to burning on the Powell Ranger District. (9/28/10)
• Lolo Pass Visitor Center Changing to Fall Hours
  The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Idaho-Montana state line along U.S. Highway 12, is changing to a fall schedule. (9/27/10)
• Wild Goose Campground closed for replacement of water system
  Wild Goose Campground located roughly 20 miles east of Kooskia along U.S. Highway 12 will close today and remain closed through the end of the month.(9/15/10)
• Bradford Connection Road to be closed for eight weeks
  Bradford Connection Road 5114 will be closed for approximately eight weeks beginning Monday, September 13.(9/10/10)
• Watershed restoration commences along Little Boulder Creek
  Recreationists visiting national forest lands along Little Boulder Creek on the Clearwater National Forest’s Palouse Ranger District may notice a number of changes along the stream.(9/10/10)
• Three Clearwater National Forest Roads to close after Labor Day
  Culvert installations on Mud Creek will result in the closures of three Lochsa Ranger District Roads.(9/3/10)
• North Fork Ranger District’s Heather Fire up to 2100 acres; six new fires detected
  Gusty winds and low humidities pushed the Heather Creek Fire to a size of just over 2100 acres yesterday.(8/27/10)
• Temporary Road Closures for culvert installations
  Effective Tuesday, September 7, Kamiah-Pierce Road No. 100 will be closed at milepost 20 for approximately four weeks, while North Fork Mud Creek Road No. 5118 and Mud Creek Road No. 518 will be closed where the roads intersect. That closure is expected to last roughly eight weeks.(8/26/10)

• Prescribed Burning on the North Fork Ranger District
  Yesterday when much of the region was bracing for severe burning conditions, fire managers on the Clearwater National Forest were igniting fires on the Clearwater National Forest’s North Fork Ranger District. (8/26/10)
• Prescribed Burning Planned on the North Fork Ranger District
  Fire Staff on the North Fork Ranger District of the Clearwater National Forest is planning on igniting approximately 1000 acres in Unit #1 and #2 of the Pollock Ridge project area, depending upon weather, smoke dispersion, and fuels. Osier Ridge Trail #428 and Pollock Ridge Trail #478 will be closed when the burns are ignited and active. (8/24/10)
• Palouse District’s Morris Creek Road closed September 1-October 15
  Motorists planning to travel Morris Creek Road No. 1969 need to find an alternate route from September 1 through October 15, 2010, when the road will be closed to all motorized traffic due to construction work. (8/23/10)
• Project schedule for Upper Lochsa Land Exchange updated
  The Forest Service recently revised the schedule for the release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Upper Lochsa Land Exchange. The new estimated release date is October 2010. (8/2/10)
• Logging activity prevalent on some Forest roads
  Motorists should be aware of logging traffic on several Clearwater National Forest roads. (8/2/10)
• Pete King Creek Road to close in mid August
  Road improvement work will result in the closure of Pete King Creek Road No. 453 beginning Monday, August 16.  The work is expected to take roughly five weeks to complete. (8/2/10)
• Forest Service plans prescribed burning near Hoodoo Pass and Pollock Ridge
  The Clearwater National Forest’s North Fork Ranger District will conduct prescribed burning operations during the months of August and September. (7/30/10)
• Lewis and Clark Re-enactors visit Lolo Pass
  The Clearwater National Forest’s Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Idaho-Montana state line along U.S. Highway 12, will host the Traveler's Rest Brigade at Lolo Pass July 31st - August 1st. (7/27/10)
• Clear/Nez Fire Zone Picks Up One New Fire
  The Fiddle Creek Fire was started by lightning at 3:23 p.m. on July 26, 2010 in the upper slopes of Fiddle Creek north of Riggins, ID. (7/27/10)
• Road to Elk Summit closed by bridge construction
  Road work will block the road leading into Elk Summit for the first two weeks of August. (7/21/10)
• Bridge installation to result in temporary road and campground closure
  Bridge installation projects on the North Fork Ranger District will result in temporary closure of the Black Canyon section of Forest Road 250 and Hidden Creek Campground between July 16 and August 6, 2010. This project is part of the on-going Economic Recovery Act (ERA) work taking place throughout the Clearwater National Forest. (7/12/10)
• Mud Creek Road to close for culvert replacement
  Travel on the Clearwater National Forest’s Mud Creek Road 518 will be restricted beginning Monday, July 19, when contractors begin work necessary to replace an existing culvert with one that will allow fish passage. (7/9/10)
• Construction to delay motorists on two Powell District Roads
  Motorists need to consider two more projects when planning outings on the Clearwater National Forest’s Powell Ranger District. (7/9/10)
• Motorists should expect traffic on Palouse District roads
  Motorists should plan to encounter logging traffic on two Palouse Ranger District roads. (7/8/10)
• Popular Powell District route scheduled to be closed during culvert replacements
  Motorists planning a jaunt to Elk Summit area should plan early morning or late afternoon trips beginning Monday, July 12. (7/6/10)
• Motorists will encounter heavy truck traffic on Palouse District route
  Effective Monday, July 12, motorists should plan for heavy truck traffic on popular Clearwater National Forest route. (7/1/10)
• Powell area roads closed for annual Lolo Pass Fun Run
  Three national forest roads near Lolo Pass will close temporarily during the annual Mountain-to-Meadow Half Marathon and 5K Fun Run. Packer Meadows Road #373, Packer Meadows Ridge Road #5671 and Packer Creek Road #5670 will close from 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (PDT) on Saturday June 26. (6/22/10)
• Enroll now for Fire, Forests and Native Arts camps
  Students seeking a summer activity may want to consider attending one of the “Fire,Forests,and Native Arts” day camps taking place at Orofino Elementary School on July 13-16 and at Timberline Elementary Schools July 27-30. (6/21/10)
• Drivers should use added caution when traveling on the Beaver Creek Road
  Forest Service officials are asking motorists to use caution as they make their way along FS Road 247, also known as the Beaver Creek Road. (6/18/10)
• North Fork visitors advised of road and recreation site work
  Motorists and recreationists planning to visit the Clearwater National Forest’s North Fork Ranger District should be aware of road and recreation site work in the area. (6/7/10)
• Motorists should expect logging traffic on some Forest roads
  Activities are in full swing on the Palouse Ranger District's Dinner Bucket Stew stewardship project. (6/4/10)
• Public advised of weed spraying on Palouse Ranger District
  Noxious weeds and other invasive plants will be the target of an aggressive spraying program on the Clearwater National Forest’s Palouse Ranger District.(6/4/10)
• Motorists may encounter heavy traffic and delays on Palouse River Road
  One of the Clearwater National Forest’s Economic Recovery Act projects, resurfacing of the Palouse River Road 447, is underway. The work is occurring between milepost 1.5 at Laird Park and milepost 6.7. (6/3/10)
• Lolo Pass Visitor Center changing to summer hours
  The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Idaho-Montana state line along U.S. Highway 12, will open for the summer season starting June 6th. (6/2/10)
• Riders ecouraged to stay on trails
  Recent spate of off-road environmental damage spurs
  agencies to encourage ATV riders to Stay on Trails (5/26/10)
• Roads open on the Clearwater National Forest
  According to Engineering Technician Bill Kessel, Forest Road 100, commonly referred to as the Kamiah-Pierce Road, has been re-opened. Engineering crews have removed the landslide that blocked that road early last week. (5/13/10)
• “Trial by Fire” for area students May 13
  Fifth graders from Kamiah Middle School, Clearwater Valley Elementary School, and the home school community are invited to the Kooskia Fish Hatchery Thursday, May 13, to enjoy a day of fun and educational fire-related activities. (5/10/10)
• Forest visitors advised to check status of roads, trails and campgrounds
  Individuals planning a recreational outing to the Clearwater National Forest during the summer of 2010 are advised to check the status of their favorite destination before heading to the woods. (5/5/10)
• Slide closes Kamiah-Pierce Road 100
  Forest Road 100, commonly referred to as the Kamiah-Pierce Road, is currently closed by a landslide. (5/4/10)
• Riparian planting scheduled to rehabilitate meadow damaged by all-terrain vehicles
  Restoration work is underway in a meadow torn up by illegal all-terrain vehicle (ATV) use on the Palouse Ranger District of the Clearwater National Forest. The majority of the work is being funded by restitution paid by individuals responsible for the damage.(4/20/10)

• North Fork District still accepting applications for campground hosts
  The North Fork Ranger District of the Clearwater National Forest is still accepting applications for campground hosts at the Kelly Forks and Washington Creek Campgrounds. (4/19/10)

• Palouse District Campgrounds will open early
  Due to the mild winter and lack of snow, all of the developed campgrounds on the Clearwater National Forest’s Palouse Ranger District will open earlier than normal this season, with gates opening on Friday, May 7th. (4/8/10)

• Lolo Pass Ski Trails
  Starting April 1, 2010, the Lolo Pass Visitor Center, will no longer be grooming the cross-country ski trails. With the grooming over for the season, recreation passes will no longer be required for parking at the visitor center. Dogs will also be allowed on the ski trails. Hours of operation will be Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Pacific Daylight Time. (4/7/10)

• Volunteer hosts are needed to staff the Elk Summit Guard Station
  Volunteers are expected to serve a minimum of two weeks, but scheduling is negotiable. Host services are needed July – September. Housing will be available at the Guard Station. (3/26/10)

• Lolo Pass Visitor Center Changing to Spring Hours
  The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Idaho-Montana state line along U.S. Highway 12, is changing to a spring schedule.
  (3/15/10)
• Selway-Bitterroot Foundation Hosts Fourth Annual Gathering in Lewiston, Idaho
  The Selway-Bitterroot Foundation is sponsoring their “Fourth Annual Winter Gathering and Fundraiser” Saturday, March 13, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Sage Baking Company, 1303 Main Street, Lewiston, Idaho.
  (2/26/10)
• Forest Service seeks Lochsa Historical Ranger Station volunteers
  Kooskia, ID –Individuals with a love of the outdoors and the area’s rich history may want to consider a volunteer experience at the Clearwater National Forest’s Lochsa Historical Ranger Station.
  (2/26/10)
• Lolo Pass Visitor Information for Presidents Day
  The Lolo Pass Visitor Center is changing hours of operation this week to accommodate Presidents' Day Holiday users. Effective this week, the facility is open Thursday, February 11, through Monday, February 15. It will then close until Friday, February 19, and be open through Sunday, February 21.
  Lolo Pass will then revert back to its usual days of operation--Thursday through Monday, from 8:00-4:30 Pacific Standard Time.
  (2/12/10)

• Clearwater National Forest Host Recruitment
  The Clearwater National Forest is looking for energetic, good-natured couples to serve as campground hosts for the 2010 season at Wilderness Gateway, or Wendover/Whitehouse Campgrounds.
  (1/20/10)
• Project schedule for Upper Lochsa Land Exchange updated
  The Forest Service has revised the schedule for release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Upper Lochsa Land Exchange.
  (1/15/10)

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Rick Brazell
Forest Supervisor
12730 Highway 12
Orofino, Idaho 83544
1-208-476-4541