MAY 6, 2020 - UPDATE

We are happy to announce the Oregon State University McDonald and Dunn Research Forests will be entering a trial reopening phase for recreational activities on Friday, May 8.

Over the past several weeks, we’ve had numerous conversations about how and when to open the forests to recreation as federal, state, and OSU orders, directives and guidelines in response to the COVID-19 pandemic change. The conversations have included forest-user groups like Team Dirt, Portland Parks and Recreation, and our Forest Recreation Advisory Council.

As a result of these conversations, and Gov. Kate Brown’s decision on Tuesday regarding the partial re-opening of state recreation areas, the following guidelines and policies will be in place until further notice. 

• The Research Forests are open on a trial basis to all recreation activities, beginning Friday, May 8.

• Equitable access to the forests for recreation is paramount. All forest access points will be available from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
• Visitors are asked to comply with the following:

• Practice social distancing measures by remaining at least six feet apart at all times.
• Adhere to “Leave No Trace” measures by packing out trash and dog waste.
• Keep dogs on a leash in forest parking lots, trailheads and when passing others on forest trails and roads.
• Bring and wear a mask when encountering other users.

• Forest trash and restroom facilities will remain closed until further notice.

• Research Forests greeters will be stationed at research forests entry points that attract high volume visitor counts. Greeters will welcome visitors and remind forest-users of policies and guidelines.
• Staff from the university, the College of Forestry and the Research Forests will continue to monitor forest usage and visitor compliance with reopening restrictions.
• The Research Forests may be closed again if federal and state guidelines change or if visitor non-compliance occurs.

We’d like to thank everyone who has shared comments and suggestions regarding our unique circumstances. We understand the closure has been difficult for many of you and we appreciate your compliance throughout the closure.

Together, we have an opportunity to make this work and we look forward to seeing you back in the forests!