Rolla, MO — The Mark Twain National Forest (Forest) is a place of beauty. When walking through the woods or riding a horse on a trail, the woodlands, glades, and other natural vistas can lull a visitor into a calm state of mind. Although finding calm is a great reason to visit the woods, ensuring that you stay alert and aware of potential hazards in nature and on the Forest is essential for having a safe visit.
Nature—plants, wildlife, and terrain— is uncontrollable, be prepared for the unexpected when visiting the great outdoors. Ensure that you continually look up at trees above and ahead of you, down at the trail in front of you, and around you as you move through the Forest. Spotting a bear before running upon its cubs can be the difference between a wonderful natural encounter and something more harrowing. Falling trees or limbs that get snagged in other trees can present serious hazards, so moving past them quickly or going around them is important to reduce exposure. A rainstorm can create ruts in a trail that were not there before, so stay alert.
Also, the Forest has many uses, not just recreation. Active forest management means that prescribed fire and logging operations can be happening in different locations. The Forest will always announce the locations in which it is conducting prescribed fire, and this information will be available on the Forest’s website, or through local media.
While in the woods, watch for log hauling trucks, skid steers, and listen for chainsaw activity. These are indicative of an active logging operation and should be avoided for your own safety given the heavy equipment use and falling trees.
Before going into the woods, you can check with the local Forest Service office if they are aware of anything planned in the area you are traveling. Follow the Forest on Facebook at www.facebook.com/marktwainnatioanlforest to find out current updates as well.
