CHADRON—National Forest Service Road (NFSR) 723, commonly referred to as the “Cliffs” Road, continues to be closed to through traffic as contractors work to replace the culvert near the Cliffs Picnic Area. The road is located on the Nebraska National Forests & Grasslands (NNFG), Pine Ridge Ranger District, approximately eight miles southwest of Chadron. Work will not be completed by Labor Day and this weekend’s opening day for grouse, dove and archery deer seasons.
Tim Buskirk, Pine Ridge District Ranger said the old culvert had been fully extracted. “We apologize for any inconvenience, but please ‘Know before you go!’ and heed traffic signage and barriers. Work being done out there will improve public safety and reduce maintenance needs in the future.”
“The road will be open from either end, however there is no through traffic” said Buskirk. “The roads are well signed, maps will be posted, and recently the contractor has placed barriers as additional safety notifications.”
Buskirk said that folks may still approach and access areas east of the Cliffs off Bordeaux Road via NFSR-723. The Job Corps Bypass immediately south of the Job Corps Center is the best access to the trailheads and vault toilets located near the Cliffs.
Buskirk also reminds visitors of increasing fire danger as grasses are curing with the recent hot and windy days. Please stay on designated roads and trails; park in appropriate areas; do not park in tall grass; never leave a campfire unattended, and assure they are ‘dead-out’ prior to leaving your camp site.
If people have questions, please feel free to contact the NNFG at 308-432-0300.