Fire Restrictions Begin for the Pike and San Isabel National Forests

Beginning immediately, Stage 1 fire restrictions are in place on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Pike and San Isabel National Forests located Chaffee, Clear Creek, Custer, Douglas, El Paso, Fremont, Huerfano, Jefferson, Lake, Las Animas, Park, Pueblo, Saguache, and Teller Counties, Colorado. Restrictions will remain in effect until they are rescinded.

Fire danger is very high and USFS fire managers anticipate a high potential for large fires.

FIRE RESTRICTIONS:

1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, barbecue, grill or stove fire. 36 CFR § 261.52(a).

EXCEPT: Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire in constructed, permanent fire pits or fire grates within developed recreation sites and the use of portable stoves, lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum, pressurized liquid fuel or a fully enclosed (sheepherder type) stove with a ¼” spark arrester type screen is permitted.

2. Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials. 36 CFR § 261.52(d).

3. Operating a chainsaw without a USDA or SAE approved spark arrester properly installed and in effective working order, a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 2A kept with the operator and one round point shovel with an overall length of at least 35 inches readily available for use. 36 CFR § 261.52(h).

4. Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame except in cleared areas of at least 10 feet in diameter and in possession of a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of at least 2A. 36 CFR § 261.52(i).

5. Using an explosive. 36 CFR § 261.52 (b).

Even with the restrictions, visitors should be aware of weather conditions and be careful with the use of fire outdoors. Visitors should check with their local U.S. Forest Service office or go to the Web at Fire Information under "Related Links" to learn about specific restrictions.

Fire Safety Message:

* Make sure that you can have a campfire and obey all fire restrictions.

* Keep a bucket of water and a shovel near the campfire.

* When putting a campfire out, drown it with water, stir the fire with dirt and more water until all the fuel is cold to the touch. Never leave a fire until it is out cold.

* If you do not have water, use dirt. Mix enough dirt or sand with the embers. Continue adding and stirring until all material is cool. Remember, DO NOT bury the fire as the fire will continue to smolder and could catch roots on fire that will eventually get to the surface and start a wildfire.


Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area in Waldo Canyon Area to Open Tomorrow

The Pikes Peak Ranger District on the Pike National Forest expects to open over 40% of the Waldo Canyon Burn Area to visitors Friday, May 24, 2013. The opening will include the Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area trail, campgrounds, picnic sites and National Forest System Roads 307, 311 and 313 (also known as the Schubarth Road).

According to District Ranger Alan Hahn, “Since the Waldo Canyon fire, we have accomplished a considerable about of work at the recreation sites and the trail around the Reservoir. Our goal is to provide a safe environment for forest visitors.” Next spring forest managers will re-evaluate and determine if additional acres can be open to the public.

The remainder of the Waldo Canyon Burn Area will be closed until further notice. The Waldo Canyon Trail #640 is not open because the steep valleys pose public danger during a major rain event which could trap visitors in low lying areas. Hazards exist such as falling rocks and dead trees, unstable ground and hidden stump holes. In several areas, it is almost impossible to climb to higher ground given the extremely steep terrain. The Closure also allows new vegetation to grow without being trampled. Addition re-vegetation projects will take place throughout the year.

Small water craft with electric motors can be launched from the shore at Rampart Reservoir. Visitors are cautioned that the water level at the Reservoir is expected to be low and the boat launch and ramp will be closed. No boats or motor vehicles will be allowed to cross the dam. Nichols Reservoir, south of the dam, is empty and is included in the new Closure Order. Stanley Canyon Reservoir is also empty.

“Please be patient and understand that this landscape has been dramatically altered. Our concern for your safety is paramount” said Hahn.

Public safety is a challenge because of the Burn Area’s proximity to the City of Colorado Springs and heavy visitor use in the past. According to Law Enforcement Officer Tom Healy, “The Closure Order is in place for personal safety and to protect the landscape by allowing it to heal.” Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the open areas. Violators are subject to a maximum fine of $5,000.

The revised Waldo Canyon Fire Closure Special Order and map will be located here. For further information please contact the Pikes Peak Ranger District at 719-636-1602.


Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Major Construction Delays on Park County Road 77 (Tarryall Creek Road)

The Federal Highway Administration - Central Federal Lands Highway Division (FHWA-CFLHD), in cooperation with Park County and Pike National Forest, has awarded a construction contract to Kirkland Construction, LLLP for the next phase of construction on Park County Road 77 (Tarryall Creek Road), just southwest of Denver in the Pike National Forest.

This project is the fourth phase of construction on the Tarryall Creek Road. This segment of the construction is located in the middle of the route, starting south of Tarryall Reservoir, and extending 9.2 miles to the southeast. The project is for full reconstruction and widening of the existing roadway. The primary scopes of work are: roadway excavation and embankment, rockery wall(s), aggregate base, superpave pavement, and drainage improvements.

Travelers will experience construction delays over the next 7-8 months. Construction operations have already begun and travelers should anticipate delays throughout the spring, summer, and fall.


Travelers should anticipate the following construction delay scenarios:

• April 8 thru Noon May 24, 2013 up to 60 minute delays seven days a week.

- Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday roadway will be closed from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Alternate routes are advised: Possible alternate routes are Park County Roads: 15, 23, 31, 34, and Forest Service Road 211)

• May 28 thru Noon August 30, 2013 up to 40 minute delays seven days a week.

• September 3 thru project completion (anticipated to be October 30, 2013) up to 60 minute delays seven days a week

• Other nighttime closure(s) may be enforced, but are not anticipated at this time.

Note: Access to Tarryall Reservoir from Park County Road 77 and Park County Road 23 will not be affected by this project.

Here's a project map:

Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com