Although it is hoped that the public will experience quality outdoor adventures in area forest lands this summer, officials suggest caution is warranted in terms of hazardous materials and trash being left by some persons.
In an informal meeting Friday at the Sweet Home Ranger District, law enforcement officials from the U.S. Forest Service, Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Land Management offered the public tips for a safe summer of fun in the outdoors.
Participants included Mike Rassbach, Sweet Home District Ranger; John Sandburg, Corps of Engineers Ranger; Dennis Daraghy, BLM law enforcement Salem District; and Bob Kathman, USFS law enforcement.
“We want to emphasize that we are not trying to scare people into staying home,” said District Ranger Mike Rassbach. “We just want them to be aware so they can make good decisions out there.”
Officials are primarily concerned that youngsters might come upon methamphetamine processing sites, garbage or syringes.
“We want people to think about not going into certain areas and to know what to look for,” Rassbach said.
John Sandburg of the Corps of Engineers said methamphetamine sites have been found recently in Quartzville recreation area and Foster Lake.
“We found three needles last week,” Sandburg said.
Some of the things the public should take note of include tarps used as a tents or coverings, gallon plastic jugs, mason jars, cans of lye or ether, measuring cups, bakeware and garden hoses.
“In other words, they should take note of something that is out of place in a natural setting,” Rassbach said.
The public is asked to call 541-367-5127 or 367-5124, Corps of Engineers; or 503-315-5940, Bureau of Land Management.
“Even with a low water pool, the public will be camping along the Quartzville Recreation Corridor this summer,” Sandburg said.
In addition to federal agency patrols, agency efforts will be aided by officers from the Linn County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police.
Sandburg said said the Corps has installed 51 new fire rings along Quartzville and two new outhouses.
“We want people to think about it being a dry fire season this year as well,” Sandburg said. “We want people to enjoy themselves but to be careful.”