Eldorado Forest opening some seasonal roads

Native surface roads and trails in the Eldorado National Forest that are subject to the annual wet weather seasonal closure will reopen on April 1.

“Melting snow will continue to create moist conditions in some areas, so it’s important to use good judgement before driving on dirt roads,” Forest Supervisor Laurence Crabtree said in a press release. “Visitors will still be responsible for any resource damage they cause.”

The seasonal closure is designed to protect roadbeds and watersheds from damage and to protect water quality. To maintain flexibility, the timing of the dirt road closure is determined based on current conditions each year which may cause the closure to go into effect early or be extended. Due to heavy rains in November, this year’s seasonal closure began December 1.

The seasonal closure does not apply to the Rock Creek Recreational Trails Area near Georgetown, which has its own wet weather closure procedures.

Meanwhile, a series of heavy storms over the winter has led to other closures due to storm damage ranging from mud, rocks, and debris to roadbed failure in some locations. Storm damage assessment is still in progress, and some damage will not be known until the snow melts. Crews are working to prevent additional damage at sites not yet failed, and engineers are developing cost estimates for repairs. The following roads will be closed until storm damage repairs are completed:

• Georgetown District – 11 Pines Road; Black Smith Flat Road; Pigeon Roost Road.
• Pacific District – Jaybird Springs Road; Granite Springs Road; Weber Mill Road.
• Placerville District – Forebay Road; Slab Creek Road; Plum Creek Road; Alder Creek Road; Bridal Veil picnic area.
• Amador District – Salt Springs Road; Panther Creek Road; Ellis Road.