Lack of snow restricts ATV use

Frontierman.com

MAT-SU — Reduced snowpack created by unseasonably warm January temperatures has led to off-road vehicle-use restrictions on three popular Mat-Su state game refuges.

The use of off-road vehicles, including snowmobiles and ATVs, is suspended in the Susitna Flats, Goose Bay and Palmer Hay Flats state game refuges until 12 inches of snow cover is present.

State regulations require at least 12 inches of snow cover and sufficient ground frost to operate off-road vehicles within the refuges. Exceptions to the restrictions include:

• Within the Susitna Flats State Game Refuge, off-road vehicle use is permitted along the Enstar Gas Pipeline right-of-way and on marked trails to Figure Eight Lake and Flat Horn Lake.

• Within the Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge, off-road vehicle use is permitted on frozen surfaces of the Knik River and Wasilla Creek, provided the ice is of sufficient thickness to support the laden weight of the vehicle.

Details regarding off-road vehicle use on refuge lands is online at 1.usa.gov/1lr1xJ6.

For more information about ATV restructions, contact refuge manager Doug Hill at (907) 861-2112 or doug.hill@alaska.gov.