-
Cave and Mine Closure Order
This order aims to protect the public health and safety of users recreating on National Forest System (NFS) lands by outlining cave and mine closures.
Alert Start Date: October 28th, 2021
Alert End Date: N/A
Order Number: 09-08-22-01
Associated Documents
Forest Order
Under the authority of the Act of Congress dated June 4, 1897, as amended (16 U.S.C. 551), and pursuant to the Secretary of Agriculture’s Regulations set forth as 36 CFR Part 261, Subpart B (36 CFR 261.50(a) and (b)), the following acts and omissions are prohibited on the Shawnee National Forest.
- Entering any cave or mine on National Forest System lands within the Shawnee National Forest. 36 CFR 261.53 (a), (b), and (d).
THESE RESTRICTIONS ARE NECESSARY TO PROTECT FEDERALLY ENDANGERED, THREATENED, OR SENSITIVE BAT SPECIES. THEY ARE IN ADDITION TO THE GENERAL PROHIBITIONS SET FORTH IN 36 CFR PART 261.
Duration: The prohibitions of this Order shall remain in effect for five years from the signed date of this order or until terminated by the Forest Supervisor.
Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50 (e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:
- Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of any organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty (36 CFR 261.50(e)(4).
- Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of any organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty (36 CFR 261.50(e)(4).
- Forest Service employees conducting surveys or monitoring in accordance with their duties and as approved by the Forest Supervisor, while following all necessary decontamination procedures.
A violation of this prohibition is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both. 16 U.S.C. 551 and 18 U.S.C. 3559, 3571, and 3581.
Executed in Bedford, Indiana, this 28th day of October 2021.
Michael Chaveas, Forest Supervisor