The northwestern part of the Pickett State Forest will be closed to vehicles beginning Monday for at least four months.
The State Forestry Division said off-road vehicles have destroyed roads and forest trails. Gates have been installed at Redmond Rim Road and Redmond Mountain Road to restrict vehicle traffic. Only foot traffic or horseback travel will be allowed.
Law enforcement will also be patrolling the area.
Camping is also prohibited north of this area so that repairs can take place.
“Although it’s not ideal to temporarily close roads, visitors to all of Tennessee’s forests deserve to have a safe and enjoyable visit. We’re going to do everything necessary to ensure that positive experience and safeguard our natural resources,” Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher said.
The closure expected to last until October. The forest runs through Pickett and Fentress counties.
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