Vale BLM increasing Snively Hot Springs patrols

By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Thursday, November 11th, 2021 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories

VALE – (Release by 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

-BLM–This year, we invite everyone to reimagine your public lands as we celebrate 75 years of the BLM’s stewardship and service to the American people. The BLM manages approximately 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The agency’s mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.