Tonto National Forest has agreed to close the forest area east of the Verde Communities to vehicle traffic.

Work has already begun on a gate across the roadway and a temporary fence. The gate is expected to be secured this week after a final sweep of the area to make sure no one gets locked into the area.

A coalition represented by Rio Verde Services, Rio Verde Community Association, Rio Verde Fire District and Tonto Verde Association have been in discussion with Tonto National Forest officials over concerns regarding access to the area.

According to RV Services President Jim Thomson, the area has become popular for dispersed camping since the Forest Service closed the Needle Rock area to camping a couple of years ago.

Thomson said forest officials themselves expressed some concern over the damage being done in the area.

The site is also designated as an historic archeological area.

A permanent fence constructed of steel pipe rails will be installed at a later date after fire danger in the area has passed.

It will also require $15,000 for materials for the fencing. That money will be collected and held with the RVCA office.

The group will meet again in early July to further discuss the project.