DNR Staff Report

 The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has opened many – but not all – of the roads and trails temporarily closed to highway licensed vehicles, commercial vehicles, and off-highway vehicles (OHV) used in Minnesota state forests this spring.

 “Until the frost comes out of the roads and trails, the soil stays soft and may be susceptible to damage,” explained Mary Straka, OHV program consultant for the DNR’s Division of Parks and Trails. “Even if the vegetation is dry and burn restrictions are in effect, the roads and trails may not be firm yet. So we ask that riders check out our status reports frequently.”

 State forest roads and trails closure status reports are listed on the DNR Web site, www.mndnr.gov, which is updated by 2 p.m. every Thursday and more often when possible. The DNR has posted signs announcing closures at state forest entry points and parking lots. Updates on the status of specific state forest roads and trails are also available from the DNR Information Center, 651-296-6157 or toll-free at 888-MINNDNR (646?6367), between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays.