DAHLONEGA, Ga., June 26, 2018
-The Rainbow Family of Living Light has chosen to hold their 2018 Annual Rainbow Gathering on the Chattahoochee National Forest on the Blue Ridge Ranger District. The unauthorized gathering site is located near Bull Mountain and Forest Service Road 28-1 in the community of Nimblewill about 15 minutes from Dahlonega, Georgia.
The unauthorized gathering could draw anywhere from 2,000 -- 10,000 people. Officials expect the attendance to peak the week of July 4. Any event of this size can have significant impacts on local communities, natural resources, traffic, and visitors. Updates: http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/conf/RainbowFamily.
ROADS:
Several temporary closures and restrictions are in place in the Nimblewill area of Lumpkin County for public safety. A map is available on the website. During the temporary closure of FSR77, Springer Mountain trailhead can be accessed using the Appalachian Trail Approach Trail beginning at Amicalola Falls State Park, or by Doublehead Gap Road to FSR42. Long Creek Falls can be accessed from FSR58 to the Three Forks trailhead.
TRAILS:
Trail users should be aware of increased pedestrian use and exercise proper trail etiquette in sharing trails. Some trails are restricted for certain uses. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on trails or closed roads unless posted. Only vehicles licensed and legal for use on public highways in the state of Georgia may be operated on Forest Service roads.
PROTECTED SITES:
The Forest Service protects many historical and cultural sites. Excavation and/or removal of prehistoric, historic, or archaeological resources, structures, sites, artifacts, or property is prohibited.
WEATHER:
Exposure to high heat and humidity may cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website for more information https://go.usa.gov/xUc8H.
Heavy rains can cause flash flooding and landslides. Be aware of your surroundings and conditions. Avoid low-lying areas.
PETS:
Individuals in and the around the gathering are asked to keep their pets on leashes, for the safety of their pets and other visitors to the area.
OUTDOOR SAFETY:
Several cases of rabies have been reported in surrounding counties. Please be wary of wildlife that is acting in an unusual or uncharacteristic manner. If you are bitten by a wild animal, please visit the nearest medical center.
A large number of ticks have been reported in the area. Many species carry Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever or cause meat allergies. Avoid tall grass and brush and stay on trails. Routinely check your hair and body. To remove a tick, follow advice from the CDC at https://go.usa.gov/xUc87.
-USDA-
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