Sierra National Forest
Credit: Sierra National Forest file photo
May 16, 2020 - Clovis Calif., – The Sierra National Forest announced that developed recreation sites will remain closed through May 21, 2020. The purpose of Forest Order No. 05-15-00-20-01 is to protect public and employee health and safety, along with protection of natural and cultural resources, by closing designated developed recreation sites on the Sierra National Forest from May 16th – May 21st, 2020.
While continuing to follow state and CDC guidelines, and coordinating with County Public Health Officials as representatives of the State’s Staging plan will allow the Sierra National Forest (SNF), forest recreation concessioner California Land Management (CLM), permittees, and forest partners an opportunity to prepare these recreational facilities to receive visitors.
Both SNF and CLM officials have begun to gather the necessary resources and personnel to bring the recreation sites back to life. It’s every bit the intention of this order during this time that we continue to protect employees, permittees, our partners, and the health and well-being of the local communities.
Normally, it takes approximately two to three weeks to open a campground and prepare picnic areas. This work includes removing hazard trees, brushing and sweeping the roads, cleaning sites, fire rings, and restrooms, and turning on and testing water systems. The Forest Service and CLM are working hard to expedite the opening of sites while meeting safety standards.
Working to open these recreational facilities is a priority but, must be accomplished safely to allow our many visitors to begin their forest adventures. We do understand outdoor recreation can be beneficial for your health, your continued patience and understanding is appreciated as we get to work to open more forest locations for your recreational activities.
The order does not close trails, trailheads, and general forest areas, which remain open for public use. Information on individual recreation sites and opportunities are available from local National Forests.
The value of nature to promote mental and physical health comes at a time when access is vital to the American public. We are working diligently to reopen our campgrounds and picnic areas for full access and ask that visitors be patient during this transition period.
If you do plan on visiting the Sierra National Forest please be aware that:
• No trash removal is currently offered – please pack out all trash and waste
• All toilet facilities are currently closed – please plan accordingly
• Avoid high-risk activities – search and rescue operations may be limited
• If an area is crowded, please search for a less occupied location
We would like to also remind our visitors that all SNF office remain physically closed during this time however, we do have staff working virtually to assist with your information needs.
Virtual Office hours and phone contacts as follows:
• High Sierra Ranger District... 559-855-5355, Mon-Fri 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Bass Lake Ranger District... 559-877-2218, Mon-Fri 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Forest Supervisors Office... 559-297-0706, Mon-Fri 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
To remain informed on SNF recreational activities during COVID-19 and this transition please follow our webpage at www.fs.usda.gov/sierra , FaceBook at www.facebook.com/SierraNF , and Twitter at www.twitter.com/SierraNF . Pages are updated as current information is received.
We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our national forests safe and healthy for everyone’s use.
Source: Sierra National Forest
