Sandia Ranger District is preparing to go into Stage 3 fire restrictions – partial forest closure by June 20, 2011.
The areas which will remain open are Pine Flat Picnic Area, Cienega Picnic Area, Sulphur Canyon Picnic Area, the front portion of Doc Long, Balsam Glade Picnic Area, Sandia Crest Observation Area, Sandia Crest House, Sandia Peak Tram and associated facilities, Sandia Ski Area, Sandia Ranger District Administrative Site and Tijeras Pueblo Interpretive Trail and Center. The Foothills Trail (FST 05365) outside of the Sandia Mountain Wilderness will remain open. All areas remaining open ARE still under Stage 2 fire restrictions and no smoking, fireworks, fires, stoves, grills, or open flame will be allowed anywhere on the district.
All other recreation facilities on the Sandia District will be closed. All trailheads, interior roads, and trails, including those accessing other Forest Service facilities, will also be closed. Access into the Sandia Mountain Wilderness is prohibited during closure.
Work projects on the district will be permitted on a per-case basis if the projects are within the open areas. There is no reason for any volunteer to be in the restricted areas when the closure is implemented. If you are in the restricted area, expect to receive a violation notice (ticket) and a possible mandatory court appearance. Fines run from $125 - $5000 and you could be imprisoned up to 6 months. Failure to adhere to the restrictions of the closure order will also be grounds for terminating your volunteer agreement.
There is no project or need on this district worth risking not only your personal health and safety but the health and safety of others.
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