Vale BLM Increasing Snively Hot Springs Patrols
By Mindy Gould on Thursday, November 11th, 2021 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News Eastern/Southeast Oregon Top Stories
VALE, OR (Released form Vale BLM)-Vale District Bureau of Land Management is taking stricter measures to protect
the visitor experience and natural resources at Snively Hot Springs day use area along the
Owyhee River.
“Earlier this year, we conducted patrols emphasizing education and awareness,” Vale BLM Law
Enforcement Ranger Stephanie Cox said. “We will continue our efforts to enforce the nighttime
closure and those found in violation will be issued citations for trespassing and/or federal
violation notices.”
As a day use area, the hot springs is closed to use from sunset to sunrise, and camping is
prohibited in and around the site at all times. Increased patrols will begin Friday, Nov. 12, and
continue through December with support from Malheur County Sheriff’s deputies and Oregon
State Police.
“The BLM is committed to ensuring the safety of users on public lands,” Cox said. “We
encourage the public to follow all rules and regulations to maintain the safety at this popular
recreation site to ensure it can stay opened for future use. This site is only open for daytime use.
At night, this site has been a popular area for underage drinking and drug use, and Snively has
had numerous DUI-related incidents.”
Littering, illegal drug use (including marijuana), underage drinking, and driving under the
influence are prohibited on public lands. Other behaviors, such as nudity, can be considered
causing a hazard or nuisance.
In the off-season, users should be prepared for off-season weather conditions, including rains or
snow, high winds, muddy or icy roads and cold temperatures.
For more information, contact Larisa Bogardus at 541-219-6863 or lbogardus@blm.gov
