The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is closing the area around Sumas Mountain in Whatcom County to motor vehicle access effective Friday, December 15, as unsanctioned trail-building, garbage dumping, and timber theft continue to damage public resources.

 

The entrances will likely remain closed until the 2024 hunting season. The forest remains open for walk-in dispersed recreation.

 

DNR previously closed the area to vehicle access in August 2022 due to similar environmental concerns that took weeks of staff time to address. The Department reopened the gates for hunting season last year and kept them open, but the damage and dumping again became a problem in recent months. The damage from the past two years has cost the state approximately $30,000 so far.   

 

“We have worked hard to keep Sumas Mountain open to recreators, but there continues to be environmental damage to the public resources in this area,” said Jay Guthrie, DNR Northwest Region Manager. “We know and appreciate that most people follow the rules while recreating, but due to recurring instances of unsafe activities and illegal use over the last two years, we need to ensure that we protect this valuable area.” 

 

The unsanctioned trails constructed on Sumas Mountain have affected fish by delivering sediment to streams, violated environmental regulations, and angered neighbors by crossing onto private property.

 

After the 2022 closure, DNR staff members worked with neighbors and other user groups to repair damage and reopen the area. Signs were posted prior to the start of the 2023 hunting season highlighting the importance of responsible recreation.

 

DNR manages the 14,000 acres of forests around Sumas Mountain north of Deming to raise revenue to support statewide K-12 school construction, Washington State University, and critical local services in Whatcom County.

 

For photos of damage to the area and a map of Sumas Mountain, click here.

 

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Kenny Ocker

Communications Manager

Cell: 360-810-1217