(Custer, SD) – The public is asked to please avoid parking in front of gates on the Black Hills National Forest.

 

Gates are used for a variety of reasons throughout the Forest including seasonal closures of campgrounds and recreation areas, temporary closures for road construction, timber sales and prescribed burns, and also to prohibit motorized vehicle use while encouraging non-motorized vehicle use, such as hiking, horseback riding and biking.

 

Forest employees, at various times, need access to the areas behind the gates for surveys, monitoring, and project work. “If a vehicle is parked in front of one of these gates, our employees are unable to get in and out of their work sites,” said Scott Jacobson, Public Affairs Officer. “We appreciate your consideration when parking near a gate on the Forest.”