DNR urges OHV users to check trail conditions; restrictions placed on ditch riding (2005-03-29)

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds riders that Minnesota law prohibits ditch riding south of the agriculture line between April 1 and Aug. 1. The agriculture line runs roughly from Moorhead to Taylors Falls along Highway 10 and Highway 95. The purpose of this prohibition is to minimize disturbance of nesting birds and to protect the cover that ditches provide.

With warm weather on the way, many off-highway vehicle (OHV) riders are anxious to hit the trails. But because state forest roads and trails are typically wet during the spring, the DNR will need to temporarily close some areas. The DNR asks riders to check on trail conditions and temporary closures before planning riding trips.

"Spring is hard on trails," said Keith Simar, state forest recreation program coordinator. "The spring thaw leads to soft soils that are susceptible to rutting. Temporary closings will begin immediately in some areas."

"Even though the DNR will temporarily close some roads and trails, we also want to give riders as many riding opportunities as possible, and provide a convenient way users can check on which roads and trails are still open," Simar said. "We urge riders to check with the DNR about trail conditions and temporary closings."

Temporary road/trail closure information is available on the DNR Web site at www.dnr.state.mn.us or by calling the DNR Information Center at (651) 296-6157 or toll free 1-888-MINN-DNR (646-6367). The DNR will also post signs at entry points and at parking lots in state forests.

"The DNR will work to let users know when and where they can ride," Simar said. "We will lift road and trail closures as soon as possible. In turn, we ask users to check before riding to avoid areas that are temporarily closed, and to ride responsibly wherever they are."

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