Media Contact: Breanne Schnell
(541)285-8807
Springfield, Ore. – Aug. 1, 2022. The Willamette National Forest has reopened its ranger stations and Supervisor’s Office to in person business from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For the past two years, services were offered only online and via mail due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the Forest has lifted and reduced fire closures, increasing access to more than 188,641 acres of Forest Service land previously in fire closure areas.
“After addressing the most critical rehabilitation work and posting information for visitors about natural hazards, we now feel it is appropriate to re-open these areas,” Acting Forest Supervisor Duane Bishop said.
The Knoll Fire and Deer Creek closure orders were rescinded on July 22, the Holiday Farm Fire closure order was reduced on July 29, the Beachie Creek and Lionshead Fire closure order was reduced on Aug. 1, and the Middle Fork Complex (Gales) Fire closure order will be reduced later in August. For details of each of these updated closures, including maps, visit our website at https://tinyurl.com/46vfvfu3.
For areas that were impacted by wildfire and have since reopened, visitors should expect a changed experience. This could include roads and trails blocked by fallen trees, hard-to-navigate stands of burned trees, eroded slopes that lack signage, and missing sections of trail. Play it safe by choosing activities that are within your comfort zone. As fire-impacted areas reopen, they may have unmarked hazards and may be more challenging in rescue situations. Learn more about safety in burned areas at https://tinyurl.com/7eyykehp.
Some trailheads, roads, and recreation sites remain closed due to the high concentration of risks and ongoing rehabilitation work that still exists. This includes a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail that will remain closed for important trail rehabilitation work. Forest Service Road 46 is now completely open to non-motorized uses, such as biking or hiking; however, a portion of the road remains closed to motor vehicles. All other Forest Service roads included in these closure orders remain closed to both motorized and non-motorized use. The Forest Service continues to work as quickly as possible to address safety risks and restore public access.
Although offices are open, the Detroit Ranger Station is temporarily closed due to necessary building maintenance. Visit our website at www.fs.usda.gov/willamette, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook @willamettenf for the latest updates.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
|
George Custer lives in Oakridge with his wife Sayre. George is a former smokejumper from his hometown of Cave Junction, a former captain in the U.S. Marine Corps. and ran a construction company in Southern California. George assumed the volunteer duties as the Editor of the Highway 58 Herald in 2022. He loves riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, building all things wood, and playing drums on the weekends in his office.
📣 Support Your Local News Publication: Donate to Highway 58 Herald! 📣
The Highway 58 Herald is your trusted source for all things local, from community events to breaking news. But we need your help to keep delivering the stories that matter most to you. Your generous donation ensures we can continue providing in-depth reporting and vibrant coverage of our community.
Every dollar helps us maintain high-quality journalism and keep you informed. Please consider making a donation today and support the voice of our community. Donate today!
Thank you for helping us keep Highway 58 Herald strong and vibrant!
OFFICE SERVICES AVAILABLE: Copying, Scanning, Emailing & Faxing Services are now available at The Herald’s office in Oakridge.
