CENTRAL OREGON -- A seasonal wildlife closure will soon be in effect on Prineville Bureau of Land Management administered lands just east of Bend, Oregon. The temporary closure is in Dry River Canyon, which is located north of State Highway 20 and approximately 20 miles southeast of Bend.

The closure is adjacent to Horse Ridge viewpoint and includes the entire canyon, in addition to all public lands within one-quarter mile of the rim of the canyon. The Dry River Canyon closure is effective February 1, 2008 and expires August 31, 2008. You can view the closure area map in .pdf format at the web site.

Wildlife biologists will periodically monitor the sensitive wildlife habitat that is protected by the closure and determine whether the closure area may be opened for public use at an earlier date than scheduled. Posted signs located adjacent to the closure will help the public identify and avoid the closed area. If the areas can be reopened prior to August 31, the closure signs will be removed and the public may use the area.

Seasonal wildlife closures affect a very small percentage of the total public land base in Central Oregon that is accessible to the recreating public.

“We’re asking for the public’s cooperation in minimizing any disturbance to sensitive wildlife in this unique area,” said Molly Brown, Deschutes Resource Area Manager.

The closure is a legal requirement directed by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to provide protection for sensitive wildlife. Under the authority of federal regulations, violators are punishable by a fine not to exceed $1000 and/or imprisonment not to exceed 12 months.