"Tread lightly on the land."
That's the appeal Fishlake National Forest officials make in a newly published travel map providing information about vehicles, horses and hiking in the forest.Vehicle use concerns officials, particularly in meadows or streams, on steep hillsides and in wildlife sanctuaries.
When people drive on wet areas, the result can be extensive rutting that starts gullies. "Erosion is difficult to correct and extremely costly to repair," the publication states.
The new edition of the travel map was published specifically in time for the hunting seasons. Copies are available at the forest supervisor's office in Richfield or at ranger district offices in Fillmore, Beaver, Loa and Richfield.
Additional information about travel opportunities may be obtained at ranger offices.
The map outlines which roads are open or closed as well as the types of vehicles that are permitted on roads and trails. It also contains areas allowing vehicle use and those that are limited to only horseback or foot travel.
Forest personnel urged hunters to respect private property in an effort to eliminate conflicts, and to comply with gate-closing signs.
The publication stresses that gates should be left as found. "If the gate is open, leave it open . . . it may be the only way livestock can reach a stream or water tank. If it is closed, close it - livestock grazing may need to be contained."
Officials warned that access across private land is not permitted unless there is an established right-of-way or permission is granted by the owner.
Leaving trash can be harmful to wildlife. Carrying it out, as urged in the Fishlake National Forest's "pack in/pack out" program, also saves taxpayers thousands of dollars by eliminating the need for costly garbage pickup services.