The Flagstaff Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest issued a closure order for a portion of the western side of Lower Lake Mary Sunday afternoon due to a leaking levee.
“Public safety is our number one priority,” said Deputy District Ranger Nicholas Mast. “Fortunately, heavy snowfall last winter means there are still plenty of places in the Lower Lake Mary area that are safe for visitors to access.”
On Monday, the Coconino County Department of Public Works and the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office closed Forest Service Roads 296 and 296B south of the lake, directing nonlocal traffic away from the area.
Visitors to Lower Lake Mary are advised to observe closure orders and follow all posted signs. Forest officials are asking the public to find and rehabilitate other areas around Lower Lake Mary until the levees are assessed and repaired.
Forestry engineers have been working since Friday to assess the structural integrity of the levee. If the levee breaks, Lower Lake Mary will be emptied into a tributary. Campgrounds, recreational facilities, and private homes will not be endangered if the levee breaches. Forest Road (FR) Route 296 may become impassable if the levee breaks.
Visitors are reminded to check the status of all forest roads at: http://coconinonationalforest.us Before forest tour.
