Effective Monday, March 22, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 6 began closing all mud gates to snowmobile trails and seasonal access roads on Forest Preserve, State Forest, and Conservation Easement lands due to spring thaw and muddy conditions. Gate closures are expected to be completed by Friday, March 26. Motor vehicle use during the spring mud season damages roads resulting in road opening delays.  

DEC will reopen the roads once they become dry enough to safely handle motor vehicle traffic and any necessary maintenance is completed. 

Region 6 is comprised of Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, Herkimer, and Oneida counties.