Canyon Dam, Almanor boat launches closed
The U.S. Forest Service and the Lassen National Forest reminds the public the Canyon Dam and Almanor boat launches are closed as part of the Forest’s effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
“Although we understand the public wants to utilize these launches, we have seen an influx of people from large urban areas where COVID-19 is prevalent,” according to a statement from the Forest. “This provides an unneeded risk to the communities surrounding Lake Almanor.
“In an attempt to mitigate this issue the Forest Service will be placing barriers preventing access to these facilities until the Governor’s shelter-in-place order is lifted. The Pacific Southwest Region of the Forest Service is dedicated to aggressively mitigating the spread of COVID-19 by closing developed recreation facilities on our National Forests statewide.”
While designated recreation sites will be closed, the general Forest area including the extensive trail system will remain open and available to the public. Hiking and walking outdoors are widely considered beneficial to maintaining one’s health. It is the intent of USDA Forest Service to maintain trail access to the extent practicable.
Keep health, safety and the environment in mind when visiting National Forests. Your personal responsibility is critical to ensuring public safety and preventing further restrictions. We ask that you consider whether your personal participation in outdoor recreation at this time would pose an unnecessary risk to others as we all work together to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19.
“We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our National Forests safe and healthy for everyone’s use,” the statement read.
For additional information on closed areas, customers needing information, call the Supervisor’s Office at 257-2151, Almanor Ranger District, 258-2141, Eagle Lake Ranger District 257-4188, or the Hat Creek Ranger District 336-5521 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday for customer service.
More information is also available at fs.usda.gov/lassen.
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The U.S. Forest Service announced closures of developed recreation facilities are being put in place until at least April 30 in an attempt to avoid groups of people and promote social distancing of staying more than six feet apart.
While designated recreation sites will be closed, the general Forest area including the extensive trail system will remain open and available to the public. Hiking and walking outdoors are widely considered beneficial to maintaining one’s health. It is the intent of USDA Forest Service to maintain trail access to the extent practicable.
Keep health, safety and the environment in mind when visiting National Forests. Your personal responsibility is critical to ensuring public safety and preventing further restrictions. We ask that you consider whether your personal participation in outdoor recreation at this time would pose an unnecessary risk to others as we all work together to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19.
** This article has been updated with additional information.
