What are the COVID-19 Guidelines from the USFS?

Thu, 2 Apr 2020 23:34:09 GMT

As of April 1, 2020, the USDA Forest Service national guidance has confirmed that special use permits (recreation residences) remain in effect while some Forests have announced closures of developed recreation sites and other support services on the National Forests. We recommend cabin owners look for public notices issued by their Forest Office regarding closure or use guidelines.

Here are the current national guidelines from the USDA Forest Service.

As with other businesses and agencies during this time, many agency staff are working remotely to continue service. Some services will be delayed as a result. This may be a good time to request adding your email to the distribution list for your forest news updates, to keep informed both now and in the future.

Also, if you are interested in reading more discussion of factors to consider around going to the cabin, see Safe to go to cabins? post on this page.

Are cabin tracts considered Developed Recreation Sites?

Fri, 3 Apr 2020 15:59:27 GMT

Recreation residence tracts are generally not considered developed recreation sites, however guidance may vary by Forest. The following description was included in a public notice recently issued by the USFS Pacific SW Region:

“Developed recreation sites” refers to designated recreational use areas designed to facilitate public use. Information on individual recreation sites and opportunities are available from local National Forests.

Note the emphasis on public use. Examples of developed recreation sites may include campgrounds, visitor centers, sno-parks, day use areas, USFS owned rental cabins, trail heads (although many trail systems remain open), and other recreation sites that tend to attract large numbers of public users.