Sierra National Forest Credit: USDA file photo
May 22, 2026 - The Sierra National Forest has issued the following Forest Orders:
- • 05-15-00-26-02 – SNF Food & Refuse Storage
- • 05-15-00-26-03 – SNF Wilderness Food & Refuse Storage
Click for Orders and Map
The Food and Refuse Storage orders require that all unattended food and garbage on the Sierra National Forest be secured in bear‑resistant containers. Overnight visitors in Wilderness areas must also use approved hard‑sided bear canisters or properly counter‑balance their food at least 15 feet above the ground and 10 feet horizontally from the trunk of a tree.
Food lockers, bear‑resistant containers, and bear canisters are essential for protecting both visitors and wildlife by preventing bears from accessing human food. Preventing bears from becoming conditioned to human food reduces dangerous encounters and helps ensure they remain wild. These are among the most effective tools for safety and conservation in bear country.
Open food and refuse are prohibited in Wilderness areas shown in Exhibit A unless stored in a bear‑resistant container.
The full Forest Orders and associated high resolution map will be available on the Sierra National Forest website, tomorrow, Friday, May 22.
Source: SNF
