Reminder, Owsley Canyon Trailhead will be closed for the remainder of the RAFIP winter 2024 season

By Garrett Christensen on Wednesday, January 17th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News

UNION COUNTY – (Release from Union County) Phase I of the Red Apple Forest Improvement Project (RAFIP) has been completed. Due to un-ideal conditions and concerns regarding impacts to MERA’s culturally important areas Phase II had been on hold since winter of 2022. After assessment and consultation with the involved parties we can proceed forward with Phase II. Phase II of the project began the 2nd day of January 2024. Below is information regarding timelines and closures.

Timeline for RAFIP (Weather Dependent)

January/February 2024: Fuels reduction via selective thinning and log hauling. Expect closures of trails in the project area, and closure of the Owsley Canyon Trailhead.
Spring 2024: Assessment of trails and begin repairing damaged sections as weather and funding allows.
Summer 2024: Removal of slash piles that are accessible with a chipper and truck.
Winter 2024/2025: Burn all remaining slash piles.
Spring 2025: Seed impacted areas, and monitor/ continue weed management.

Closures

Due to a number of recreationalists in the RAFIP area during forestry operations we have decided to close the Owsley Canyon Trailhead as well at all trails within the immediate vicinity. See the map for a more accurate representation of the closure area. We expect the trailhead to open at the end of January or beginning of February.

Josh Ford

Union County Parks Coordinator

541-963-1319