Don't know if anyone else read this........
The Ocala National Forest is beginning implementation on the new trail and road system in the central portion of the Forest. This marks the completion of the route designation process for the entire Ocala National Forest. Implementation of this system means that all roads and trails will be closed unless signed open.
Forest Service employees will be marking motorized trails, posting road signs and creating new trailheads. Immediate plans call for marking 47 new miles of slow speed (less than 20 miles per hour), off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail and one trailhead south of State Road 40.
This decision will change many of the current riding areas in the central portion of the Forest. Forest visitors will no longer be able to ride OHVs on the powerline road (old Forest Road #573/new Forest Road #14) south of the Big Scrub Campground. All future trails will be designated north Big Scrub Campground.
“Implementation will be very challenging in this area of the Forest,” said District Ranger Rick Lint. “We are working hard to create a trail system that protects resources while providing a riding experience that will educate the public about the unique scrub ecosystem.”
In July, visitors will be able to get maps and information about new trail locations and parking from the local district offices, visitor centers and the website. By July, users riding in areas not designated will receive warnings and information from Forest Service personnel about where to ride.
“This summer and fall we will be educating people riding in the central portion of the Forest,” said Recreation Manager Bret Bush.
Soon all rules, regulations and fees will be the same for all motorized trails across the entire Ocala National Forest. Also new state laws take effect July 1, 2008 that pertain to children under 16, noise limits, and double riding in addition to the existing titling requirement.
“There are a lot of changes regarding roads and trails occurring on the Ocala National Forest,” said Lint. “We encourage people to contact us before they head to the trails if they have any questions about the new trail system and changes to the rules.”
For more information contact the Lake George Ranger District at (352) 625-2520 or the Seminole Ranger District at (352) 663-3153 or visit
www.fs.fed.us/r8/florida.
