Stanislaus National Forest
Sierra Sun Times file photo

April 13, 2017 - SONORA, California – Record-setting snow levels and extensive storm damage mean some roads scheduled to reopen April 15, 2017 will remain impassable, Stanislaus National Forest officials announced.

“In past years our estimated date of April 15 to open seasonal roads was pretty accurate,” said Jim Junette, acting Deputy Forest Supervisor for Stanislaus National Forest. “This year’s amazing snowpack and the level of storm damage on the Forest means many roads will remain closed, possibly for several months.”

Junette said workers haven’t been able to inspect many Forest roads yet because they are still covered with large amounts of snow. That means the Forest doesn’t yet know the full extent of damage from weather-related conditions.

“We expect to have a snapshot of Forest road conditions by late April,” Junette said. It is a snapshot because Forest Service workers will continue inspecting and identifying damaged infrastructure as the snow melts, he added.

Currently, the following high-use roads are confirmed to be closed until storm damage repairs are completed:

•  Mi-Wok/Groveland Ranger District: Cottonwood Road, Forest Road 1N04, between the intersections with Thompson Meadow (FR 2N13) and Reed Creek (FR 3N01S)
• Summit Ranger District: Beardsley Road, Forest Road 4N29, known as Beardsley Day Use Area Road

A series of heavy storms during the winter led to storm damage ranging from mud, rocks and debris slides, to roadbed failure on some roads. Crews are working to prevent additional damage at sites that have not yet failed, and engineers are developing cost estimates for repairs.

Visitors are encouraged to contact local Ranger District office for current information on roads and conditions before traveling on the Forest.

Stanislaus NF Supervisor’s Office:  209-532-3671

Calaveras Ranger District:  209-795-1381

Groveland Ranger District 209-962-7825
Source: Stanislaus National Forest