Reminder about access into August Complex fire area

Mendocino National Forest officials issued a new area closure for the August Complex effective Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020 through Monday, Nov. 30, 2020.

This temporary area closure is necessary to protect the firefighters assigned to the August Complex and protect the public from potential injury caused by hazards created by the fires in the August Complex.

Since evacuation orders have been lifted in Glenn, Tehama and portions of Mendocino counties, residents and property owners may return to their properties within the August Complex fire area. If residents and property owners access their property via county roads, they need to show proof of ownership at the entrance points to the Forest. Proof of ownership may include a title, tax assessment or deed to name a few. These property owners do not need a permit from the US Forest Service. Having a map with the location of your property identified on it might be helpful at the checkpoint.

Forest Order No. 08-2013 authorizes persons with a Forest Service contract or permit from the Forest Service to enter the closed area. This includes summer home cabin owners, communication site workers and other special uses. These persons need only to show a copy of their permit to the guards at the checkpoints to enter the closed fire area.

Private properties accessed via a Forest System road may require a permit from the US Forest Service. Please contact the Mendocino National Forest at 530-934-3316 for more information.

Evacuation orders and advisories remain in effect in north Lake and Mendocino counties. In Mendocino County, evacuation areas are designated by zones. It is helpful for residents to know where their property is located within these zones. Please see each of the respective county sheriff’s office or emergency management websites for specific evacuation information.

Evacuation information can be found at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/ article/6983/55716/. Forest Order 08-20-13 and associated exhibits, including the map, are posted on the forest website: https:// www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/ fseprd807574.pdf. Hunting and recreation within the closure area is prohibited.