MEDIA ADVISORY
June 24, 2011
Timber harvest this summer means heavy truck traffic in parts of Ahtanum State Forest, beginning June 27
DNR urges visitors to use extreme caution
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) advises outdoor recreationists heading to Ahtanum State Forest, 30 miles west of Yakima, to be aware of heavy truck traffic as a result of timber harvest activity beginning Monday, June 27.
What: Timber harvesting in the Klickitat Meadows in the western part of Ahtanum State Forest.
During the harvest operation, visitors can expect anywhere from 20 to 30 log or chip trucks each day, as well as road graders and water trucks maintaining the roads.
When: Monday, June 27 through late October, depending on weather.
Where: Area near Tree Phones Campground, along the Middle Fork Ahtanum Road to Tampico. In addition, the large parking area at Tree Phone Campground will be closed this summer for use as a staging area for the chip trucks. Tree Phones Campground will remain open during the timber harvest.
Why: DNR stresses public safety, especially during timber harvests. Always yield to heavy trucks and equipment.
More information: If you have a CB radio, you may monitor channel 14 to keep informed about truck traffic in the area or contact Ken McNamee, DNR’s Southeast Region Alpine District Manager, 509-925-0937 (office); 509-899-2883 (mobile); or ken.mcnamee@dnr.wa.gov.
Media Contact: Toni Droscher, Recreation Program Communications Manager,
360-902-1523, toni.droscher@dnr.wa.gov
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