The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest has renewed the ban on alcohol on the recreation section of the Illinois River Corridor from May 24th through September.
As in previous years, the area included in the temporary alcohol ban extends from the Forest boundary on Illinois River Road west of Selma to an area near the McCaleb Ranch including the area surrounding Cedar Camp.
The ban is effective approximately 1/4-mile on either side of Illinois River Road in those areas. The ban will not be in effect on privately-owned lands, nor will it apply to those who are driving on Illinois River Road to reach a destination outside the closure area.
Violation of the alcohol ban is punishable by law, with the penalties of up to six months in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Wild Rivers District Ranger Scott Blower said the decision to implement the alcohol ban arose from the concern for public safety and it has been met with overwhelming support from both the local communities and those who travel to the river from outside areas.
The Illinois River is part of the nation's Wild and Scenic River system, with 50.4 miles designated in 1984 including the 3.8-mile-long recreation section.
