Wildfires prompt wider Ochoco NF closure
The Ochoco National Forest late Saturday issued a new, wider area closure that encompasses not just areas south of the Bailey Butte Fire but also areas around a group of fires known as the Ochoco Complex.
The closure encompasses all National Forest System lands from Highway 26 on the west to Forest Road 12 on the east, following the forest boundaries on the north and south, with additional acreage north of Mill Creek Wilderness.
Multiple active wildfires are burning within the closure area. The closures have been issued to provide for public and firefighter safety during a period of very active fire behavior and fire suppression efforts.
Fires within the closure boundary include the Bailey Butte fire, which is being managed as part of the Waterman Complex, and five fires that make up the Ochoco Complex, managed by the Great Basin Incident Management Team 6.
Information on both of these fires can be found at http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/.
The closure covers all campgrounds, trailheads, forest roads, and developed facilities on National Forest System lands within the closure area.
The order includes exceptions for people traveling in an official capacity, and those with special permits and written permissions.
The Ochoco National Forest will rescind the order as soon as it is safe to do so.
The forest appreciates the patience and cooperation of surrounding communities during this time of accelerated activity.
Alternate route between Prineville and Mitchell
An alternate driving route through the Ochoco National Forest between Prineville and Mitchell is still open, but the forest roads can be steep, rocky, and washed out in places. Ensure you have a map and an appropriate vehicle before choosing this route.
From Prineville, turn south on Combs Flat Road and continue east on Highway 380 past Post and Paulina. About 5 miles east of Paulina, turn north on Wolf Creek Road and continue north to a Y where Forest Road 42 and Forest Road 58 depart. Take Forest Road 42. The road passes Salters Cabin campground and Wolf Creek campground as it enters the national forest.
Follow Forest Road 42 to Six Corners junction, then turn onto Forest Road 12 which leaves the junction heading east before turning north. Stay of Forest Road 12 all the way to its junction with Highway 26, about 10 miles east of Mitchell.
