California Wildfire Crisis and National Forest Closures

Due to the ongoing wildfire crisis, California’s national forests have been closed until September 17 in an effort to protect the public. However, this measure is likely to alter the plans of many individuals who would traditionally camp, bike, or hike in the forests during the popular Labor Day weekend.

Unrelenting fires have caused extensive damage, with the large Caldor fire leading to the evacuation of thousands of residents from the tourist town of South Lake Tahoe. As these wildfires threaten to surpass last year’s devastation— which was recorded as the worst— temporary closures of Forest Service land have been enacted by the US Department of Agriculture Forest Service’s Pacific Southwest Region to safeguard the public and firefighting personnel.

Officials have restricted access to 20 million acres of California’s national forests to prevent visitors from becoming trapped during emergencies. This measure also decreases the likelihood of new fires starting and limits potential COVID-19 exposure among firefighters and the community. Notably, the order does not affect the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, as it is not located within the Pacific Southwest Region. Furthermore, state and national parks, as well as private lands, remain unaffected.

According to officials, the current statewide conditions indicate that any new fires have the potential for large and rapid growth, posing a high risk to life and property. Violating the closure orders can result in fines of up to $5,000.

“We do not take this decision lightly. However, this is the best choice for public safety,” stated regional forester Jennifer Eberlien. “It is especially difficult with the approaching Labor Day weekend, when so many people typically enjoy our national forests.”

The closures will remain in effect until September 17 at 11:59 PM. For further information and updates, you can refer to official sources.