|
USDA Forest Service
Daniel Boone
National Forest
1700 Bypass Road
Winchester, KY 40391
Phone: 859-745-3100
FAX: 859-744-1568
Trail Use Recommendations at Cave Run Lake
For Immediate Release
Contact: Kimberly Morgan
Forest Service requests voluntary trail restrictions at Cave Run Lake
WINCHESTER, March 3, 2009 – During the winter months, when the ground is saturated with moisture from rain, snow and ice, the trails of the Daniel Boone National Forest are highly susceptible to soil degradation in extensive use areas. The Cave Run Lake area is one location in particular where extensive trail use occurs. As a result, Forest Service officials are requesting the public to voluntarily avoid using certain trails in the lake vicinity until a seasonal drying period begins. Many of the trails in this area undergo frequent travel by hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers.
“The use of voluntary restrictions, rather than a seasonal closure, is something new for us,” said Ranger Dave Manner. “Voluntary restrictions provide us more flexibility to protect the resources while considering recreation use of the trails.”
Due to wet soil conditions, the Forest Service is recommending that hikers only use the 9-mile Caney Loop trail near the Cumberland Ranger District office. In addition, the agency is requesting that horseback riders voluntarily avoid all trails east of Cave Run Lake and state highway 801. This recommendation is effective immediately through May 1.
“The objective of the voluntary trail restrictions in the Cave Run Lake area is to prevent unnecessary trail damage and soil erosion,” said Manner. “To prevent such impacts will result in less need for trail maintenance and improved trail conditions throughout the remainder of the year.
“Our observations support that this time of year is when most trail tread damage occurs, when the soils are saturated after long bouts of wet weather. We need to let the trails dry out before any more heavy use occurs.
“Because of the extremely wet weather, now is a critical time to encourage voluntary trail restrictions and limited use so impacts may be avoided. We simply want to provide a trail system that provides for a positive recreational experience while ensuring that the natural resources are adequately protected,” said Manner.
The trails in the Cave Run Lake vicinity have experienced a tremendous increase in use over the past 10 years. Initially designed and constructed for hikers, these trails are increasingly used by mountain bikers and horseback riders.
To further minimize impacts on soil and vegetation, the Forest Service recommends that all users stay on developed trail systems. Walk or ride in single file to avoid trail widening, and never blaze your own trail or shortcut cross-country.
For updated trail information in the Cave Run Lake area, the public may call the Cumberland Ranger District at (606) 784-6428 or visit the Daniel Boone National Forest website at www.fs.fed.us/r8/boone.
Trail Recommendations Flyer (8.5x11, word document)
Trail Recommendations Poster (11x17, word document)
