Public Invited to Tour La Brea Fire Area Closure
Release Date: May 18, 2011
Contact(s): Andrew Madsen (805) 961-5759, Ken Kunert (805) 925-9538 ext. 223

GOLETA, CA… Los Padres National Forest officials are inviting members of the public on an informational field trip into the La Brea Fire closure area on the Santa Lucia Ranger District to see first-hand the damage caused by fire and heavy winter rains and review the reasons that roads and trails remain closed to vehicles.

The field trip will be held May 23. The public will need to provide 4x4, high-clearance vehicles in order to drive into the closure area. Those planning to attend should meet at 9:00 AM at the District Office at 1616 North Carlotti Drive in Santa Maria.

“The closure area includes some of our district’s more popular recreation areas and I understand the public’s frustration with the closure,” said Santa Lucia District Ranger Kathleen Phelps. “Seeing the road damage up close and having their questions addressed by our staff will hopefully lead to a better understanding of the challenges we face in re-opening this area to vehicle traffic.”

The field trip is expected to last five to six hours. Plenty of water, sunscreen and a sack lunch are recommended.

For more information, call the Santa Lucia District Office at (805) 925-9538.