MEDIA ADVISORY
May 2, 2012
DNR temporarily closes section of ORV trail in Walker Valley
Closure will protect public safety and reduce sediment runoff
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has temporarily closed a section of the Walker Valley Off-road (ORV) Trail System where a portion of a trail has washed out. DNR took action to protect public safety and to reduce environmental damage from sediment runoff on the trails. The trail system, located in Skagit County, is a popular ORV destination with 36 miles of trails.
The section of trail affected was on the Upper Mainline Trail. A large amount of sediment was traveling down the trail, raising concerns about potential impacts to Walker Creek. DNR has installed temporary sediment and erosion control measures to prevent the sediment from reaching Walker Creek.
DNR is investigating the cause of the trail washout and will work with recreation user groups to reopen the trail in a timely manner. Permanent trail repairs will take place once the trail dries out.
Who: DNR Recreation Program
What: Emergency trail closure
When: Effective immediately
Where: Walker Valley ORV Trail System – Upper Mainline Trail
Why: Portion of the trail washed out
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DNR recreation alert: Emergency closure of Upper Mainline Trail section in Walker Valley ORV area.
For more information, contact Christ Thomsen, 360-854-2860, or christ.thomsen@dnr.wa.gov
Media Contact: Diana Lofflin, Recreation Communications Manager, 360-902-1169, Diana.Lofflin@dnr.wa.gov