BREAKING: Closure Order in effect restricting equestrian recreation along the lower Salt River, starting at 6 am today May 29th until June 29th 2020, or until rescinded. Map attached.

We have identified additional suspected cases of VSV, while not confirmed, the symptoms and lesions are consistent with the disease. There are 13 suspect horses at the moment.

In coordination with the AZDA, the Tonto National Forest is enacting this closure order to prevent the potential spread of the disease from the Salt River horses to visitor’s horses, who can then also spread it to private barns.

Violations of this order are punishable by a fine of not more than $5000 and/or imprisonment of not more than 6 months.
Please share so that horse back riders can be informed before they load up their horses and make a trip for nothing.

Wishing all horse back riders and their horses good health and a safe weekend.

To find the closure order visit the TNF website at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto