August 24, 2022 3:40 a.m.

A multi-forest closure order previously in place to protect firefighters and for public safety during suppression efforts associated with the Windigo, Potter, and Big Swamp fires has been reduced.

Pam Sichting of the Umpqua National Forest said the threat to firefighters and the public has diminished significantly allowing forest managers to reduce the size of the closure.

Sichting said the closure on the Umpqua National Forest has been reduced, opening Mt. Thielsen Wilderness, Kelsay Valley Horse Camp, and multiple local trails plus the Pacific Crest Trail.

A release said these large closure areas are necessary to ensure that firefighters can focus on managing the fire versus having to focus on evacuating visitors should fire conditions change rapidly.

The full closure order and map is posted on the Umpqua National Forest web page: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/umpqua/alerts-notices/?aid=75087

Umpqua National Forest is currently in Level 1 Public Use Restrictions, Industrial Fire Precaution Level II and a very high fire danger rating.