Re: Forest Closure

USDA Forest ServiceSan Bernardino National Forest
Date: November 1, 2007
San Bernardino National Forest
602 S. Tippecanoe Avenue
San Bernardino, California 92408
For Immediate Release
Contact: John Miller (909) 382-2788

San Bernardino National Forest Remains in Emergency Forest Closure

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif., November 1, 2007— Due to continuing fire danger, forecasted Santa Ana winds and recent fire activity, the San Bernardino National Forest officials are continuing the forest closure implemented on October 23. The closure will remain in effect indefinitely, for the health and safety of the public, until conditions improve.

The closure prohibits public entry to the forest, with few exceptions, and will last until the extreme conditions subside. The closure does not affect areas and communities adjacent to the forest, only forest land is closed.

While the closure is in effect, going into or being upon National Forest System lands, roads, or trails within the San Bernardino National Forest is not allowed. The closure will affect the use of all national forest recreational facilities, roads and hiking trails. Violators are subject to fines and/or imprisonment.

County roads and state highways may be affected by fire activity but are not included in this forest closure. Drivers are urged to seek information about closures, be aware of fire activity in the area and to use extreme caution.

The few exceptions to the closure allow forest access to the Serrano Campground, the Alpine Pedal Path, the Juniper Point Parking Area, Mill Creek Ranger Station and the Discovery Center. Access to these sites is deemed safe, but visitors must remain vigilant and tend to current fire restrictions, including no smoking or no wood or charcoal fires anywhere on the forest.

Organizations holding special use permits for sanctioned activities within the forest are also exempt from this order, including recreational residences and organizational camps, but occupants must remain within the permit boundaries.

For further information about the closure or fires currently burning on the San Bernardino National Forest, contact the Fire Information Center at 909-383-5688.