Ottawa National Forest Issues Closure Order for Caves

IRONWOOD, MI - Friday, June 4, 2010 – Forest Supervisor Susan Spear announces issuance of a Forest closure order prohibiting entry into any mine on National Forest System lands within the Ottawa National Forest.

“The purpose of the closure is to provide for public health and safety by reducing or eliminating possible risks associated with mines, including potential for collapse, entrapment and carbon monoxide poisoning,” stated Spear. Additionally, this closure order will reduce disturbance of bats and the spread of white-nose syndrome among bats.

White-nose syndrome is a malady of unknown origins that has killed hundreds of thousands of bats across the northeast United States during the past three years and continues unchecked. The best available science shows that the fungus associated with White-nose syndrome thrives in the cold and wet conditions common to caves and abandoned mines.

“Mine access restrictions are necessary to slow the spread of White-nose Syndrome.” Spear said. “As we continue to learn more about White-nose syndrome and how it is spread to and from caves and mines, we will re-evaluate our closure order.” The Forest Service is currently working with partners and law enforcement to share information and strengthen coordination and consistency in our efforts to slow the spread of White-nose syndrome.

To learn more about this closure order or White-nose syndrome, please visit the Ottawa National Forest’s webpage at www.fs.usda.gov/ottawa or call your local Forest Service office.