For Immediate Release: January 11, 2007

Contact: Vanessa Gulati 617-626-1119

OFF-ROAD VEHICLE TRAILS IN STATE FORESTS CLOSED FOR SEASON

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has issued a public notice reminding visitors that trails designated for Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) use in Beartown State Forest, October Mountain State Forest, Pittsfield State Forest, Tolland State Forest, F. Gilbert Hills State Forest, Freetown-Fall River State Forest and Georgetown-Rowley State Forest are closed for the season.

ORV trails in Massachusetts state forests are closed from the last Sunday in November to May 1 of each year. The seasonal closure is necessary to protect the trails, as they are more susceptible to damage during this time. ORV users caught using trails during the closed season will face significant fines. For more information, see www.mass.gov/dcr/forparks.htm.

All other state forests, parks and reservations are closed to ORV use at all times. ORV use is defined as any motor vehicle designed for recreational use off a public way, legally registered and under 1,000 pounds. For information on registering ORVs in Massachusetts, please see www.mass.gov/dfwele/dle/elereg.htm.

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