Respect Wildlife
National forests provide habitat for all kinds of wildlife. We are visitors in their home.
The consequences of approaching wildlife can be serious. You are responsible for your own safety as well as the safety of wildlife. Wild animals should be allowed to forage for food, care for their young, sleep, and play without human disturbance.
- Don't leave your food, including pet food, out in the open when not being used.
- Never approach or feed wild animals.
- Wild animals are individualistic and unpredictable.
- Always maintain a safe distance
- Young animals are rarely orphaned, so leave them where you find them. Leave young wildlife wild.
Learn more about living with wildlife on the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) website.
Wildlife Closures
Some roads are closed in the winter to provide rangeland for wildlife, as the cold season is an especially stressful time for these animals. It's your responsibility to know these closures and help us protect animals who call Mt. Hood home.
Fishing Regulations
Certain populations of fish are threatened and protected. The Forest Service works with ODFW to protect spawning fish and anglers are responsible for knowing fishing restrictions and regulations.
Be Bear Aware
Bears become habituated to human food if they find it available and eventually lose their fear of humans. Bears can become a threat to humans, property, and themselves - a pattern that normally ends with unfortunate death to the bear. Protect yourself and bears by storing trash and food in safe locations when you visit the Forest. Visit the Be Bear Aware website for more information.
Oregon is Cougar Country
Cougars can have a home range of 150+ miles. Virtually all of our Forest and mountain communities are within a cougar's territory. Cougars, aka mountain lions, are considered public safety risks if you see aggressive or abnormal behavior. If this happens, call your local ODFW office. Learn how to safely coexist with cougars in Oregon.