FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 29, 2010
State DNR temporarily closes Samish overlook day-use area
Vandalism causes closures for recreationists
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will temporarily be closing the Samish Overlook day-use area in the Blanchard Forest block, located in the Northwest region near Bellingham. Vandalism is the cause for the closure in which 12 trees were cut down creating a potentially hazardous situation for recreational visitors.
“We expect the site will be closed at least 2-3 weeks, if not longer,” said Northwest Region Recreation Manager Christ Thomsen. “It will take some time coordinating volunteers, who will be vital to helping us open up the park in these tight budgetary times.”
Signs for the closure have been placed on the gates and kiosks around the day-use area. Recreationists are encouraged to stay out of the day-use area until cleanup efforts are completed. Routine services at the restrooms will continue while the gate is closed.
Recreationists can stay informed throughout the cleanup by checking the DNR website at www.dnr.wa.gov or by calling DNR’s Northwest Region Office at 360-854-2860.
Recreation on DNR-managed lands
DNR manages more than 5 million acres of state-owned forest, aquatic, agricultural, conservation and urban lands. Most recreation on these lands takes place in the 2.2 million acres of forests that DNR manages as state trust lands. By law, state trust lands are managed to produce income for schools, universities, prisons, state mental hospitals, community colleges, local services in many counties, and the state’s General Fund. State trust lands are also managed to provide fish and wildlife habitat and educational and recreational opportunities.
DNR-managed lands provide 1,100 miles of trails, 143 recreation sites, and a variety of landscapes throughout Washington State. Recreational opportunities include hiking, hunting, fishing, horseback riding, camping, motorized vehicle riding, mountain biking, and boating.
DNR’s main recreation focus is to provide trails, trailhead facilities, and a primitive experience in a natural setting.
Media Contact: Abbey Corzine, communications specialist, 360-902-1401, abbey.corzine@dnr.wa.gov
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