County Commissioners re-evaluate MERA closure

By Paul Hall on Thursday, August 5th, 2021 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News

LA GRANDE – The Board of Commissioners re-evaluated Mount Emily Recreation Area (MERA) current closure with many concerns from the public. Commissioners decided to open up approved roads for vehicles and keep all unapproved roads closed. Camping will remain closed. All other restrictions still will be in place under the guidelines of the Oregon Department of Forestry. The Commissioners will evaluate the MERA closure during their next regular meeting.

Last week the Commissioners approved the opening for non-motorized approved access.

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY FIRE REGULATIONS

· NO FIRES

· NO SMOKING

· POSSESSION OF FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT REQUIRED WHILE TRAVELING IMPROVED ROADS ONLY

1. ONE SHOVEL

2. ONE GALLON OF WATER OR ONE 2 ½ POUND FIRE EXTINGUISHER

· IMPROVED ROADS IN MERA

§ 201 MAINLINE

§ 202 MT EMILY ROAD

§ 203 HIGHLINE

§ 208 EASY OUT

ALL OTHER ROADS AND TRAILS ARE CLOSED TO MOTORIZED USE

Additionally, the MERA campground and Foxhill will be closed until conditions improve.