MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – National Forests have a proud tradition of hosting Americans for Independence Day.
The Mendocino National Forest reminds residents and visitors to recreate responsibly and do your part to help everyone enjoy a safe and fun holiday weekend.
“We anticipate that Independence Day 2020 will be a very busy one on the Mendocino National Forest. National forests provide a great way to enjoy the outdoors but it is important that everyone recreate safely,” forest officials said in a Thursday statement.
The Mendocino National Forest increased public access this week by providing additional recreational opportunities. Forest Order No. 08-20-08 for the Ranch Fire area opened several campgrounds and a selection of trails. The forest website has the most up-to-date information on reopenings.
Under Forest Order No. 08-20-08, the following remain closed: Cedar Camp Campground, Dixie Glade Campground, Lower Nye Campground, Lower Nye Trailhead and select OHV trails on Upper Lake Ranger District.
“Visitors should come with all the essentials for their stay, including food, emergency supplies, and be prepared to pack-out trash,” said acting Mendocino National Forest Supervisor Shannon Pozas. “Certain services may still be unavailable. Visitors are asked to plan accordingly.”
Pozas added, “Please recreate responsibly to help ensure that expanded access to recreational facilities, services and opportunities continues.”
Please remember:
– Only gather with people from your household and maintain a minimum of at least six feet of physical distance from other visitors.
– Communicate with others as you pass on trails or step aside and allow others to pass.
– Pack out your trash and leave with everything you bring in and use.
– If you or anyone in your household is feeling sick, please remain at home and plan your trip for another time.
Everyone can help prevent wildfires by being extra careful with campfires, stoves and other ignition sources. Fire restrictions are in place to protect the health and safety of employees and communities.
Outside of developed campgrounds and wilderness, igniting, building, maintaining or using a fire on the Mendocino National is prohibited. Fire restrictions are posted here.
Before traveling to your favorite spot, Forest officials encourage visitors to check the Mendocino National Forest website and social media platforms – including Facebook and Twitter – or call one of the ranger district offices for information.
Additionally, a web map is available to help visitors find out which recreation areas are open on nearby forests, including campgrounds, day-use sites, and trails on National Forests in California. View the GIS map at https://go.usa.gov/xwurX .
Fire restrictions are in effect on the Mendocino National Forest. Campfires are only permitted in open developed campgrounds and within the wilderness. Additionally, please note that fireworks are not permitted on any National Forest.
Visitors are also urged to take the precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention along with local health and safety guidance. Visit the CDC website for tips from the CDC on preventing illnesses like the coronavirus.
Mendocino National Forest urges public to recreate responsibly over July 4 weekend
- Lake County News reports
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