Aug. 8, 2012 — The Reading Fire, approximately 15 miles northwest of Chester, is currently listed at 1,450 acres and is burning in the Lassen Volcanic National Park, 14 miles south of Old Station, Calif. The fire started as several lightning fires after a thunderstorm passed through the park July 23.

Several trails and the Devastated Area have been evacuated. Campgrounds will be evacuated when necessary.

As stated in the park's Wildland Fire Management Plan, "There is a need to manage wildland fire so threats to humans and property are reduced, while at the same time restoring and/or maintaining its function as a natural process."

Therefore, park officials will continue to monitor the spread of the Reading Fire, but allow the fire to consume surface fuels.

According to the park's website, "The Lassen National Park Highway is closed between Summit Lake and Devastated Area."

The Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center at the south end of the park is currently open for visitors. Visit the park website, nps.gov/lavo where you can find fire management information through the "management" link.