Forest closures protect wildlife

In response to seasonal changes, and to protect winter range, some roads and areas on the Targhee Forest have already closed or will close beginning December 15^th. Among them are numerous seasonal wildlife closure areas.  Lower elevations tend to be used heavily by wintering wildlife and protecting this habitat is essential to their survival.

Caribou-Targhee Wildlife Program Manager Nate Yorgason points out, “When people enter closed winter range, animals are forced to move to new locations. Moving away from people requires animals, such as deer, elk and moose, to use energy they cannot spare, leading to a weakened condition, which can have a direct effect on the animals’ ability to fend off disease or predators.”


 

In addition to wildlife and resources, winter travel restrictions also prevent conflicts with competing recreation uses. Maps are available at any of the Forest Service offices of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.  Winter recreationists are urged to obtain a current map before traveling in the Forest.