Last Post 14 Apr 2020 06:19 PM by  JONATHAN RAY
Idaho Claims Open?
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Chris West
Greenhorn
Greenhorn
Posts:19



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29 Mar 2020 08:12 PM
    I know most, if not all of the national forest campgrounds are closed in Idaho, but wondering if someone can still access the GPAA claims? Thinking some of the claims would be a good place to 'shelter in place' for a week or so. If anyone knows anything, would appreciate some info.
    KEVIN HOAGLAND
    Basic Member
    Basic Member
    Posts:355



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    30 Mar 2020 11:40 AM
    At this time all GPAA claims and leases are open. If there are any mandates from the federal Government to close public access lands we will let the membership know. There are however things that you should take into consideration before considering BLM or Forest Service administered lands as a choice of shelter in place (SIP).
    You have to get there. this could be challenging for some considering the precautions that you should be taking to protect yourself in social areas , town, travel stops. Please read my article posted to the landing page about steps that everyone should be practicing.
    You must be self contained. Even when not in a time likes these the use of lands comes with responsibilities.With campgrounds closed there are very few dump stations available in many areas. This includes public bathroom facilities in campgrounds and on all GPAA private property leases in the eastern states where we are unable to place porta-potties due to federal health concerns. If people begin to use public lands as a SIP and create unhealthy situations for other land users there will be issues arise.

    For everyone to consider,
    Are you heading to a claim to prospect or isolate? Isolation is not healthy for the body or mind. Prospecting on the other hand is a perfect way in getting out and decompressing even if it is for the day. I am getting out as often as possible and just a few hours of swinging a detector is all I need to stay grounded.
    Be aware of your surroundings and situation and do not create situations that would be unhealthy in any way to others. We are a community and a family. What one member of this family does reflects on all of us.
    Chris West
    Greenhorn
    Greenhorn
    Posts:19



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    30 Mar 2020 07:18 PM
    Thanks for the response, Kevin, and the good advise. If done safely, seems like a good opportunity to dig in the dirt and unplug from the news.
    JONATHAN RAY
    Greenhorn
    Greenhorn
    Posts:12



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    01 Apr 2020 09:52 PM
    Idaho just had a 6.5 earthquake last evening with several strong aftershocks so the photos in the news this am show at least a foot of snow on the edges of the roads around Lowman and my son lives in Elk City (claims End of the Road, The Progress, Deadwood 3) where there is still lots of snow cover. Most of the backcountry roads and trails are still gated with campgrounds not opening until Memorial Day Weekend. As for claims that are not Central Mountains I'd check the local weather first. Good luck out there.
    JONATHAN RAY
    Greenhorn
    Greenhorn
    Posts:12



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    14 Apr 2020 06:19 PM
    My agency sent on a NY Times article regarding Travel limitations/ restrictions of each state which was updated today. Enjoy the read for Idaho and stay safe.

    Idaho
    Driving restrictions: A stay-at-home order is in effect for all but essential activities. Some counties have individual orders. Anyone arriving in Blaine County from out of state, for instance, must isolate for 14 days, regardless of whether they are a resident or visitor.
    Restaurants: No dine-in service.
    Hotels: Blaine County, home to Sun Valley, has banned hotel and short-term rentals to those from outside the county unless they are performing essential functions.
    Other: Leisure travel in Idaho is discouraged. Idaho state parks are closed to camping through May 15. Many hot springs, campgrounds and parking areas in Boise National Forest are closed.
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