TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Thursday, Apalachicola National Forest officials announced that they are temporarily shutting down some boat ramps and trailheads to protect visitors and staff amid the coronavirus pandemic.
In compliance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for social distancing, along with current Florida state-governed policies, U.S. Forest Service officials are temporarily shutting down recreation areas in the Apalachicola National Forest on Friday.
Effective at 8 am. on Friday, the latest temporary shutdowns include the following sites:
· Silverlake OHV Trailhead
· Spring Hill Motorcycle Trailhead
· Trout Pond Trailhead
· Whitehead Boat Ramp
· Mack Landing Boat Ramp
· Wood Lake Boat Ramp
· Leon Sinks
Some areas remain open for public use, including the general forest area and trails.
“As we work through an unpredictable and rapidly changing situation, the health and safety of our forest visitors and employees are our number one priority,” said Forest Supervisor Kelly Russell. “We are committed to serving the best interest of our local communities, and we will continue to work together to minimize the impacts and spread of COVID-19.”
While trails and roads may be open for use, officials are asking people to "recreate responsibly" and follow public health guidelines regarding social distancing while you recreate in the Apalachicola National Forest.
For a list of closures, more information and updates, visit www.fs.usda.gov/florida.
