The Lassen National Forest has implemented a new Forest Order expanding the Dixie Fire Closure Order first issued in July. This new order closes specifically identified roads and trails to protect public health and safety as the Dixie Fire, which is exhibiting extreme fire behavior, has grown to over 501,008 acres.
“This Closure Order will facilitate unimpeded ingress and egress for fire and other emergency responders and owners, lessees, and land residents in the area,” explains LNF Public Affairs Officer Mark W. Gaston. “We are limiting the public’s exposure to fire danger and impaired visibility due to smoke.”
The LNF prohibits the public from going into or within the Dixie Fire Closure Area or any National Forest System Roads or trails described in the Order, which will be in effect from today through November 30th, 2021.
“We consulted externally with CALFIRE, Butte County Sheriff’s Office, and Plumas County Sheriff’s Office while considering the specifics for the closure. Internally, we consulted with the USFS employees with expertise in fire management prevention, law enforcement, and public affairs were all contacted and involved in developing this closure order.”
“We have chosen to close additional roads and trails to minimize any potential threats to the public and to provide general security measures,” said Chris O’Brien, LNF’s Acting Forest Supervisor.
The following persons are exempt from this Order:
- Any Federal, State, or local officer or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
- Persons with a Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for the use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order.
- Owners or lessees of land in the Dixie Fire Closure Area, to the extent necessary to access their land.
