The Lassen National Forest Almanor Ranger District will temporarily close both the Almanor North and Almanor South Campgrounds to public use, effective immediately due to the large number of dead trees throughout the campgrounds that pose a high safety risk to visitors.
The past several years of extreme drought conditions has contributed to significant tree mortality throughout the Forest. Forest Service personnel have identified more than 300 hazard trees within the popular campgrounds. These campgrounds are frequently used by visitors for camping throughout the season.
“We are temporarily closing these campgrounds until we can safely eliminate the risk these hazard trees pose to visitors as well as our employees,” Almanor District Ranger Kathleen Nelson said. “We appreciate the public’s cooperation and understanding while we take the necessary steps to safely remove the dangerous trees.”
Forest Service crews have cut down as many hazard trees as can be safely removed. Some trees, based upon the level of defect and decay, will require specific technical skill and knowledge in order to be removed. The district is concurrently working on a contract so that a professional timber faller can be obtained to fall those remaining high risk trees in the campground areas.
The closure prohibits all public entry into the area including camping, day use, hiking, and access to the Almanor Recreation Trail. The Almanor Boat Launch and parking area will remain open for public use and is not included in the closure order. This closure will remain in effect until further notice.
The threat of hazard trees is not limited to campgrounds. There are thousands of hazard trees in the forest and in remote recreation areas. Visitors are advised to exercise judgment when it comes to personal safety. Be aware of your surroundings whether you see posted signs or not, do not camp anywhere near or under trees that appear to be dead or dying.
For more information contact Stacy Kronner, Recreation Officer at (530) 258-2141 or [email protected].
Comments are closed.