Enjoy National Forest trails and recreating responsibly by social distancing

HELENA - The recreational opportunities available on the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest are important resources for you and your loved ones to help maintain physical and mental health and wellness during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. As the Forest sees an increase in use from members of the public seeking fresh air and outdoor places it is important to remember to practice physical distancing in the outdoors as you would anywhere else during this time and to be prepared to recreate responsibly.

"Getting outdoors and being in nature is now more important than ever," said Bill Avey, Forest Supervisor. "We ask folks as they enjoy hiking trails and other recreation on the National Forest to adhere to social distancing." Social or physical distancing means staying at least six-feet away from anyone not living with you and refraining from gathering or recreating in groups of 10 or more. If the trailhead or dispersed recreation location you visit appears crowded or if the parking area is full head to a different trail that has fewer people to avoid overcrowding. While on the trail, warn others of your presence and step aside to let other visitors pass in a safe distance.

Forest visitors should be prepared for limited or no access to public restrooms as many are closed in alignment with CDC recommendations. Avoid high risk activities as first responder and healthcare systems may be overwhelmed at this time and practice good stewardship of your public lands such as by packing your trash and recyclables out with you. For more information on how to Leave No Trace during the COVID-19 pandemic visit http://www.lnt.org.

To learn more about the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/hlcnf. Follow us on Facebook @LewisandClarkNF, follow us on Twitter @HLCNF, or contact your local District office.

Belt Creek-White Sulphur Springs Ranger District Offices:

· Belt Creek Office, Neihart, MT - (406) 236-5511

· White Sulphur Springs Office - White Sulphur Springs, MT - (406) 547-3361

Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest Great Falls Office - Great Falls, MT - (406) 791-7700

Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest Helena Office - Helena, MT - (406) 449-5201

Helena Ranger District - Helena, MT - (406) 449-5201

Judith-Musselshell Ranger District Offices:

· Judith Ranger Station - Stanford, MT - (406) 566-2292

· Musselshell Ranger Station - Harlowton, MT - (406) 632-4391

Lincoln Ranger District - Lincoln, MT - (406) 362-7000

Rocky Mountain Ranger District - Choteau, MT - (406) 466-5341

· Augusta Information Station - Augusta, MT 59410 - (406) 562-3247

Townsend Ranger District - Townsend, MT - (406) 266-3425