The San Juan National Forest is implementing a forest-wide stage 3 fire closure of the national forest. The closure will protect natural resources and for public safety.

Fire danger in the San Juan National Forest remains high due to extreme drought conditions and fuel conditions. The closure will most likely be signed into effect on Tuesday, June 12, and will remain in effect until sufficient moisture is received to improve conditions.

What Does This Closure Mean?

The closure of the San Juan National Forest will prohibit the following:

  • Entry by the general public
  • Most administrative entry by Forest Service employees
  • Most uses authorized under Forest Service permits and contracts

This means all campgrounds, day-use areas, roads, and trails will be closed. This prohibits:

  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Other recreational activities

The Forest Service may grant exemptions on a case-by-case basis with written authorization that include specific requirements for fire prevention.

The San Juan National Forest covers 1.8 million acres across nine counties in southwestern Colorado.

Violating a stage 3 fire restriction or entering a closed area carries a mandatory federal court appearance, is punishable by a fine of $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization or imprisonment of up to six months or both.

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