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MERCK FOREST GUIDELINES
We ask that you comply with the following guidelines:
VISITOR USE
Merck Forest is open to the public every day all year without fee for day use. Donations and memberships help cover operating costs are welcome and encouraged — these may be left at the Visitor Center, with any of the staff, in the donation box at the gate or at the Caretakers' Cabin. Please register each time you visit. Large groups (10 or more) are requested to notify us in advance. For your own safety, please do not climb on fences or equipment or enter fields with the animals.
MOTOR VEHICLES & PARKING
Visitor motor vehicles are restricted to the entrance roads as far as the gates; parking is permitted only in designated areas. Parking areas and entrance roads may not be used for overnight camping. Motor bikes, ATVs and snowmobiles are prohibited.
CAMPING
Overnight camping permits are required and should be obtained in advance by writing or calling. Camping is permitted only in designated sites. Campers should arrive and register well before dusk to allow safe travel to their campsite.
FIRES
Outdoor fires are permitted only in designated fireplaces or fire rings and are not to be moved or altered. Fires should be attended by a responsible adult at all times with adequate materials (i.e., water, sand) on hand to extinguish the fire safely. All fires should be completely extinguished before leaving the site. Dead wood may be collected from the ground only. Standing wood should not be taken, even if it appears dead. Fires may be prohibited due to drought or other hazardous conditions.
TRASH & GARBAGE
Please carry out all trash and garbage and leave the area as clean or cleaner than when you found it. Do not leave anything "for the next camper." Do not use privies (outhouses) for disposal of trash or garbage.
PONDS, STREAMS & SPRINGS
Surface water sources (ponds, streams and springs) are always subject to contamination. We recommend that such water be treated (e.g., with iodine or by boiling) prior to human consumption. To prevent contamination of water supplies, soap or detergents should not be used in or near streams and ponds. Use privies when available or be sure you are at least 200 feet from water sources or trails. Our ponds are not maintained for public swimming use. Swimming without qualified lifeguards may be hazardous and is not recommended. You do so at your own risk.
HUNTING & COLLECTING
For information about hunting at Merck Forest, please contact the staff at the Visitor Center or inquire by phone or by mail. Hunters are advised that Merck Forest is open to the non-hunting public — who also use the property during hunting season — and that hunters and non-hunters are expected to respect each other's rights and privileges. Hunters must comply with all applicable state and federal regulations. We encourage observation and discourage collecting.
PETS
Please keep your pet on a leash and under control in the farm area. Farm animals can be frightened, injured or killed by even the friendliest pet! When conditions permit skiing, please keep your pet on a leash to avoid posing a hazard to skiers.
OTHER
Mountain bikes are not permitted on the trails at Merck Forest because of the potential for injury and damage to the environment. Unruly, hazardous or destructive behavior, noisy parties, possession or use of illegal drugs and excessive use of alcohol are not permitted.
THANK YOU
Thank you for your interest and cooperation. We hope that you will enjoy Merck Forest now and in the years to come.
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