USFS alters restrictions near American Fire

Forest Supervisor Tom Quinn has signed a new emergency closure order for portions of the Tahoe National Forest within and adjacent to the American Fire area.

It is effective now until May 1. The order is less restrictive than the previous one and is in place for human safety and resource protection.

The order opens Foresthill Divide Road, Deadwood Ridge Road, and Forest Service Road 43 (Flat Ravine) to through traffic and also opens Robinson Flat campground.

The Western States Trail (WST) between Michigan Bluff and Deadwood Cemetery is open, and OHV Loop 6 (Forest Service Trail 11E44) is open west of Deadwood Ridge Road. However, the WST and Loop 6 within the fire area east of Deadwood Ridge Road remain closed.

The entire fire area, including all interior trails and roads, is closed except the portion of Foresthill Divide Road that passes through the fire area.

Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun into the fire closure area is also prohibited.

The Forest Service can issue a permit to private landowners or other adults with a reasonable need to access the closed area.

The area is being patrolled, and people entering the closed area without a permit will be cited.