For Immediate Release: February 24, 2004
Contact: Steven Hall, 970-244-3052

Mud season gums up travel on public lands

GRAND JUNCTION, CO — A wetter than usual mud season in Mesa County has brought travel on public lands to a muddy, sticky halt. The Bureau of Land Management is asking the public to refrain from travel if possible on backcountry roads and trails that are virtually impassable.

“We’re seeing a much more severe mud season than normal,” BLM Grand Junction Field Manager Catherine Robertson said. “Whether travel is by vehicle, bicycle, horseback or on foot, people are struggling to get around and they can cause significant resource damage due to extreme muddy conditions.”

Wet weather and soils still recovering from drought have combined to produce mud several inches to several feet in depth throughout Mesa County. Over the weekend, six four wheel drive vehicles became stuck in a single area after an off-road driver became stuck and his friends came to help tow him out. The group was issued citations for driving off-road in a designated route area and they may be required to rehabilitate the damaged area, now crisscrossed with ruts several feet deep.

Travelers need to be aware of travel designations on public lands, particularly with wet, muddy conditions. Off-road travel is discouraged due to potential resource damage even in areas where cross-country travel is allowed.

Travelers are also asked to give established roads and trails a break. In some areas, trees are being stripped bare of vegetation to build up slippery road beds and fill ruts for travelers who have become stuck. Even mountain bikes, horses and hikers can leave tracks that will be slow to disappear in Mesa County’s desert climate.

“Right now it is not a fun time to be out on public lands, regardless of the activity. Hopefully people will give public lands some time to dry out before traveling in the backcountry,” Robertson said. “The Riverfront Trail provides an outstanding alternative for those wanting to get out and enjoy recreation here in Mesa County. It offers an improved surface and easy access so people can enjoy the outdoors even during mud season.”

 -BLM-