County plowing priorities announced

COLFAX - Winter is coming and bringing snow and icy road conditions with it.

Whitman County Public Works issued a letter to school districts and U.S. Postal Service carriers to inform them of how the county determines what roads to plow and care for during winter driving conditions.

The first roads to receive snow removal are paved.

The second priority is gravel roads that are school bus and mail routes.

The third priority is all other gravel access roads.

"(Gravel roads) will not be plowed unless there is 6 inches of snow or drifting conditions," stated public works.

School districts are being advised to develop emergency routes on paved roads.

"It is also suggested that all vehicles be equipped with snow chains with instructions as to their installation and use," stated public works.