June 7, 2023 - Action: Pursuant to Section 303 (a) of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1733 (a)), 43 CFR 8360.0-7, and 43 CFR 8364.1to 43 CFR 9268.3 and 43 CFR 8364.1, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) hereby provides notice that effective immediately, the public lands described below are closed to all forms of public access. This closure is for public safety due to high water flows and related hazardous conditions along the San Joaquin River above Millerton Lake. Day use and camping facilities remain open in the recreation area outside the closed area.

Affected Area: Portions of the San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area within 100 feet of the San Joaquin River. The recreation area is located near the town of Auberry, CA, along Smalley Road, west of Powerhouse Road in Fresno and Madera Counties.

Prohibitions: The public must not enter the closure area. All uses within the closure area are prohibited. Exceptions to these prohibitions are noted below under Supplemental Information.
Dates: This closure is effective immediately and will remain in effect until such time as conditions allow for safe use of the public lands.

Supplemental Information: The following persons are exempt from the provisions of this Order:
1. Any Federal, State, or Local Officer, or member of an organized medical, rescue or firefighting force engaged in fire, emergency, or law enforcement activities, or public utility employees engaged in emergency repairs.
2. BLM employees, contractors, or agents engaged in official duties:
3. Individuals operating within the scope of their official and legitimate governmental duties.
4. Parties who carry written approval signed by the BLM Authorized Officer allowing access to the described public lands.

Penalties: Any person who violates this may be tried before a United States Magistrate and fined in accordance with 18 U.S.C. 3571, imprisoned for no more than 12 months, or both. Vehicles found in violation of this order may be removed.
Source: BLM