Ongoing Wet Weather Delays Reopening of Kula Reserve

By Wendy Osher

Fallen trees block the Kula Forest Access Road. Photo by Division of Forestry & Wildlife.

The Kula State Forest Reserve is expected to remain closed through the end of June 2011. Crews from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources continue work on road and infrastructure repairs due to damage caused by storms in January.

The dirt access road to the Polipoli State Park has already been cleared of down debris and trees. Work continues to repair eroded sites and damaged drainage infrastructure along the road leading up to Polipoli State Park and beyond to the area known as ‘Ballpark’ and Skyline Drive.

Additional recent rainfall in the Kula Forest Reserve has hindered restoration efforts there. State officials say future rainfall events in the area can be expected, resulting in delays with chipping, road, and drainage repair activities.

Kula Forest Reserve is expected to reopen as the hazardous conditions are addressed. A closure sign remains in place at the white access gate and the Skyline Trailhead.