Visitors to Alaska's National Forests required to keep gatherings to 10 people or less

Anchorage Press

In alignment with current federal, state, and local guidance for social distancing and to ensure the health and safety of its employees, visitors, and volunteers, the U.S. Forest Service Alaska Region is prohibiting gatherings of more than ten people on the Chugach and Tongass National Forests.

This prohibition is consistent with Health Mandates issued by the state of Alaska. The Order is effective April 7 and remains in effect until Sept. 30, 2020, or until rescinded, whichever occurs first. 

“Hiking and walking outdoors is widely considered beneficial to maintaining one's health. Alaska’s two national forests provide many trails and outdoor sites that can still be utilized while adhering to state mandates for public health,” said David Schmid, Alaska’s Regional Forester. “We want recreation opportunities on the forests to remain available to the public but be aligned with public health guidance.”   

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