September 12, 2017 - Clovis, CA. – A Forest Closure Order will be implemented in the Sierra National Forest, September 12, 2017 on the Bass Lake Ranger District. This order is deemed necessary to protect public safety as implementation of suppression repair efforts which occurred during the Railroad Fire begins.

(Left) Nelder Grove Campground near the Chimney Tree - Credit Sarah Laplante

The Railroad Fire has burned 12,407 acres since August 29, 2017 and is 75% contained. The purpose of this closure is to provide safety for the public and for the firefighters who are engaged in fire suppression and rehab efforts within the Railroad Fire Closure Area, shown on the attached map.

Under Forest Order No. 05-15-51-17-20, Pursuant to 16 USC and 36 CFR 261.50 (a) and (b) the following acts are prohibited within the Sierra National Forest; going into or being upon National Forest System Lands within the Railroad Fire Closure Area.

This restriction is necessary for the purposes of ensuring public safety until the wildfire can be managed to protect the public. Closure of the fire area is necessary to help ensure that no one is injured within or near the active fire perimeter; all National Forest System roads and trails, within the active fire perimeter will be closed due to fire suppression and rehab activities that create a hazard to the public which includes the falling of hazard trees that were weakened by the fire and the construction and maintenance of fuel breaks. This closure will remain in effect until the fire is declared out.

For information on the other Forest closures, please visit www.fs.usda.gov/sierra/.
Source: Sierra National Forest