PRINEVILLE, Ore. –The Bureau of Land Management will temporarily close Reynolds Pond Trailhead, blocking access to Reynolds Pond from noon to 6 p.m. each day of Sept. 11-13, to protect public safety during permitted gundog testing. The closure will also restrict access to the Oregon Badlands Wilderness from Reynolds Pond during those hours.  

During the three days, gundogs will complete a series of tests at Reynolds Pond. Blank shotgun shells will be used as part of the testing, and the temporary closure will keep visitors safely separated from the activity. 

“Hunting with trained dogs has a long tradition in Oregon, and safety is an important part of that,” said Lisa Clark, Deschutes Field Office Manager. “This short closure gives the dogs and participants room to complete the testing safely while visitors use other trailheads to access the Wilderness.” 

The announcement comes during National Shooting Sports Month, which recognizes America’s recreational shooting and hunting traditions and the importance of firearm safety, personal responsibility, and conservation. 

For alternate access to the Oregon Badlands Wilderness, visitors should use the Dry River or Chitwood trailheads.  

-BLM- 

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.