Trail news - Lincoln National Forest

	Areas affected by Hurricane Dolly remnants to reopen
	Alamogordo, NM (August 7, 2008) – Lincoln National Forest officials are going to reopen part of the closed portions of the Smokey Bear Ranger District affected by the remnants of Dolly. The areas were closed due to flood damage and the associated hazards. The affected areas closed on July 27, 2008, were lands north of U.S. 70 and west of N.M. State Highways 48 and 37 and Forest Road 9038D north of NM State Highway 380, in the general vicinity of lower Salazar Canyon. Also reopening for public use is Three Rivers Campground as well as Nogal, Bonito, Eagle, Cedar Creek, Perk/Brady, Grindstone, and Sawmill Canyons. Ski Run Road (State Highway 532) starting at mile marker 2 will remain closed until repairs are completed. Forest Road 127A and Oak Grove Campground will remain closed. The City of Alamogordo is reopening the following campgrounds in the Bonito area: West Lake, Blue Hole/ Apple Orchard and Lower pasture. The large meadow area on Lincoln National Forest lands adjacent to Big Bear Canyon will be closed to public access due to flooding. Forest officials are asking the public to please stay out of this area. The remaining portion of the Smokey Bear Ranger District is open and available for use. Forest officials would like to remind visitors to southeastern New Mexico that this is the season for heavy rainfall. There is still a potential for flooding to occur due to saturated lands. Public safety is first and foremost during your visit to Lincoln National Forest and City of Alamogordo public lands. Please plan accordingly. This area Closure Order will be effective August 8, 2008, at 8:00 a.m., and will remain in effect until further notice. For additional information about the Forest Service, please contact the Smokey Bear Ranger District Office at (575) 257-4095.