MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – The closure order for the North Pass Fire, number 08-12-16, was lifted at 6 p.m. Friday, which reopened all forest roads and recreation areas in the Yolla Bolly Middle Eel Wilderness and surrounding areas on the Mendocino National Forest.
Visitors to the forest should be aware that just because the fire is out and the closure is no longer in effect, many hazards still remain. Burnt stump holes, snags and other forest hazards remain a concern in the area.
“We are happy to be able to restore access to the western portion of the Forest,” said Forest Supervisor Sherry Tune. “We are asking the public to exercise caution when entering and recreating in the area- there are still several hazards out there.”
The North Pass Fire started Saturday, August 18 and consumed approximately 41,983 acres north of Forest Highway 7 between Anthony Peak and the community of Covelo.
The Mendocino National Forest lifted fire restrictions Tuesday.
Although visitors can once again have a campfire in the forest, fire season is not over. Please use caution when recreating in the forest, especially if you have a campfire.
As a reminder, for those recreating in open areas of the forest this fall:
- Be aware of current conditions before heading to the forest, including closure orders, alerts, notices and current weather.
- Be prepared for changing conditions, including the appropriate gear and layered clothing. Especially in the mountains, weather conditions can change rapidly from hot and sunny to cold and wet.
- Let someone know when you are leaving, where you are going and when you will be back.
- If camping in the open forest, select a level campsite away from dead trees or possible rolling debris. Remember to look up to identify potential hazards.
- Flash flooding and mud flows may be common in areas without vegetation.
For more information, please visit www.fs.usda.gov/mendocino or contact the Forest at 530-934-3316.