A portion of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge has been opened to snowmachine use. All areas of the Refuge traditionally open to snowmachining lying north of the Kasilof River and Tustumena Lake will be open effective 12:01 a.m. on Saturday January 4.

Closed areas in this portion of the Refuge include the Swan Lake and Swanson River Canoe Systems, all areas above timberline, and areas within the Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area (except that Hidden, Kelly, Petersen and Engineer lakes are open to provide snowmachine access for ice fishing pending sufficient ice).

The southern portion of the Refuge, including the Caribou Hills, remains closed to snowmachining at this time due to lack of adequate snow cover.

The Refuge advises that snowmachine users exercise caution, especially on lakes, rivers and streams which may not yet be sufficiently frozen. In addition, rocks and tree stumps can be hazardous in areas of less snow accumulation.

For more information, please contact Refuge Headquarters at (907) 262-7021,