Silver City, NM—Visitors and hunters to the Gila National Forest are reminded that some forest roads have been severely impacted by recent flood events. The Catron County area received the majority of flood damage.
“With hunting season in progress and the fall season upon us, please be prepared for the unexpected! Many Forest Service roads in Catron County have been impacted and are impassable causing several vehicles to become stuck. Employees have been making contact with individuals and informing folks in the woods as to the best way out. Please use caution when driving on roads that have been impacted, as we are continuing to work on the main arterial roads that access areas across the county,” states Reserve District Ranger John Pierson.
The best thing for visitors to do is to check with the local Ranger District office for current road information as some roads in Catron County are completely washed out, severely eroded, or extremely muddy
To avoid being caught in a flood or flash flood, check weather conditions before venturing out to the forest, and avoid camping along rivers, creeks, arroyos, or any drainage areas where flooding can easily occur after a rain shower. Even a small amount of rain can cause flooding as the ground is thoroughly saturated.
Visitors are reminded that, outside of the damaged roads, the forest offers many other areas in the 3.3. million acres where the cool, autumn weather can be enjoyed.
As the majority of Ranger District offices will be closed this coming Friday, September 27th, the Supervisor’s Office and the Silver City Ranger District both located in the same building in Silver City will be open, and can be contacted at 575.388.8201, for information. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.