MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST – The Mendocino National Forest is asking visitors in the Fouts Springs area, west of Stonyford, to be aware that three motorcycle enduro events are scheduled this fall, beginning with an event scheduled Sunday, Oct. 18.

The event is being conducted under a special use permit issued by the Forest Service to the Oakland Motorcycle Club.

There are additional enduro events planned for the Fouts Springs area on the Grindstone Ranger District. These events are scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 15, by the Valley Climbers and Sunday, Nov. 22, by the Richmond Ramblers. All events are being conducted through special use permits.

These events are being held on designated roads and off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails. The courses are not closed, meaning the roads will remain open for public use. However, Forest visitors are encouraged to be aware if they are recreating in the Fouts Springs area:

• Watch for signs indicating the event area.

• Pay close attention to signs indicating the route and the direction of travel - the event consists of one-way loops. If you are using part of the enduro route, you are encouraged to travel in the same direction, going with the flow.

• Listen for traffic and, if driving, open the driver side window enough to be able to hear engine noise that may be approaching.

• If you are driving, avoid cutting corners and stay to the right on the roads. For other recreational uses, avoid lingering on roads and watch for traffic.

"The Mendocino National Forest, like other public lands, is managed for multiple uses," said Grindstone Ranger District Implementation Officer Paul Montgomery. "We want the public to have a safe and enjoyable recreation experience on the Forest. Visitors should be aware of these events and be able to plan their weekend activities accordingly."

These events typically draw hundreds of motorcycle riders and spectators to the area. Campgrounds near the event location are likely to fill up quickly.

The water for the Fouts Springs Recreation Area is currently shut-off until further notice. As a result, the dump station at the site is also closed until further notice. Forest visitors in this area will need to bring water with them for both potable use, including drinking, as well as for any other needs.

For more information, please contact the Forest at 530-934-3316 or visit www.fs.fed.us/r5/mendocino .