ANDERSON, Calif. — Sierra Pacific Industries will close public access to its California forestlands beginning Monday, June 22, due to increasing wildfire risk across the state.
According to the company, the closure is being implemented because of reduced snowpack, drying vegetation, low moisture levels, and forecasts calling for a hot, dry summer.
SPI said it evaluates several factors when determining whether to restrict access, including vegetation conditions, temperatures, and long-range weather forecasts. The company also noted it works with land management partners on fire prevention efforts, including fuel reduction projects, fuel breaks, and wildfire suppression activities.
During the closure, public access to SPI roads and walk-in access to company-owned forestlands will be prohibited. Roads shared with federal landowners and designated for public use will remain open. Public roads that cross SPI property are not affected by the closure.
The company said the closure will remain in effect until conditions improve.
Updates on forestland access are available on Sierra Pacific Industries’ recreation access webpage. Questions about the closure can be directed to the SPI California Public Recreation Hotline at 530-378-8274.