More areas reopening

The Willamette National Forest is restoring access to fire-affected areas.

The Willamette National Forest has reopened its ranger stations and Supervisor’s Office to in-person business from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For the past two years, services were offered only online and via mail due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the Forest has lifted and reduced fire closures, increasing access to more than 188,641 acres of Forest Service land previously in fire closure areas.

“After addressing the most critical rehabilitation work and posting information for visitors about natural hazards, we now feel it is appropriate to re-open these areas,” Acting Forest Supervisor Duane Bishop said.

The Knoll Fire and Deer Creek closure orders were rescinded on July 22, the Holiday Farm Fire closure order was reduced on July 29, the Beachie Creek and Lionshead Fire closure order was reduced on Aug. 1, and the Middle Fork Complex (Gales) Fire closure order will be reduced later in August.

For areas that were impacted by wildfire and have since reopened, visitors should expect a changed experience. This could include roads and trails blocked by fallen trees, hard-to-navigate stands of burned trees, eroded slopes that lack signage, and missing sections of trails. Play it safe by choosing activities that are within your comfort zone. As fire-impacted areas reopen, they may have unmarked hazards and may be more challenging in rescue situations.

Some trailheads, roads, and recreation sites remain closed due to the high concentration of risks and ongoing rehabilitation work that still exists. This includes a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail that will remain closed for important trail rehabilitation work.