The Bull Trout, Bear Valley and Fir Creek Campgrounds between Lowman and Stanley will be temporarily closed on a varied schedule beginning September 15 and extending through October 5 due to insect infestation treatments, according to a press release from the Boise National Forest.

Each campground will close at different times depending on weather and scheduling opportunities, so campers should contact the Lowman Ranger District for current updates. All of the facilities are within the Lowman Ranger District primarily in the Bear Valley area.

The closures are being implemented to treat trees within the campgrounds that have been infested, or are susceptible to infestation from mountain pine beetles. A private contractor will spray the trees in a continuing effort to maintain a forested campground. This effort is done every two years.

Mountain pine beetles continue to heavily infest trees in the greater Bear Valley area. Managers are focusing on maintaining trees in the campgrounds to enhance visual aesthetics and public safety due to the potential increase of standing dead trees if left untreated.

For more information, call the Lowman Ranger District at (208) 259-3361.