El Dorado County (June 29, 2024) – By Cris Alarcon
In response to the escalating threat of wildfires, Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) has announced the closure of its forestlands in California to public access starting Friday, June 28. This preventive measure affects several key areas, including Coldstream Creek, Martis Peak, and Jackson Meadows.
The decision to restrict access is driven by multiple wildfire risk factors. Rising temperatures, dry vegetation, low moisture levels in fuels, and long-range weather forecasts indicating heightened fire danger have all contributed to SPI’s move to protect both the environment and public safety. The closure will be enforced until conditions improve, with moisture levels and weather forecasts being key indicators for any potential reopening.
During this period, the use of SPI’s roads and walk-in access to the company’s privately owned lands for recreational purposes will be strictly prohibited. However, public roads that cross SPI lands will remain open and unaffected by this closure.
SPI urges the public to respect these restrictions to help prevent wildfires and ensure the safety of the community and the natural resources. For more information about the company’s recreation access policies, please visit their website. For any inquiries related to the closure, the SPI California Public Recreation Hotline can be reached at 530-378-8274.
This proactive step by SPI underscores the importance of wildfire prevention and the role of responsible land management in safeguarding our forests and communities.