The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge announced Monday that it is open for snowmachine use.

Areas of the refuge that are always closed to snowmachines include around the headquarters on Ski Hill Road, Swan Lake and Swanson River Canoe Systems and all areas above timberline except in Caribou Hills. Also included is Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area except for Hidden, Kelly, Petersen and Engineer lakes, which are open to provide snowmachine access for ice fishing.

The refuge encourages users to avoid moose and other wildlife whenever possible, to be respectful of their surroundings and to avoid windblown areas that have insufficient snow accumulation.

In addition to providing a map of the refuge illustrating where people can and cannot use snowmachines, the refuge provided a QR code that people can scan using a smartphone or tablet and that will load the map in the Avenza Map App. The app will show users their current location on the map, even if cellphone coverage is not available.

People interested in learning more can contact refuge headquarters at 907-262-7021.

Reach reporter Ashlyn O’Hara at ashlyn.ohara@peninsulaclarion.com.