[pct-l] Update from Forest Service on Mountain Fire closure

[Dan Welch]

I just received the following message from Andy Smith who is the point
person for searching out a PCT re-route around the Mountain Fire Closure.  I
let him know I would be back in touch around March 1 to follow up and get an
update.  Plenty of volunteer opportunities for those interested - but you
should go through either Andy Smith (909-382-2937) or PCTA.

Timberline
  

***

Hi Dan,
 
Just got your message and you were next on list to contact after holidays.
 
Yes, I am working with post fire Burned Area Emergency Rehab (BAER)
contractors starting tomorrow. We will be scouting Spitler Peak trail as a
potential re-route option. I have been able to spend  a lot of time over the
holidays assessing trails, especially PCT.  Additionally,   I have an SCA
crew with the PCTA in March to work on trails.  
 
The majority of retention walls that were in the burn area have failed or
will be sooner than later.  These are my priority as they pose a threat to
hikers.  Re- contouring many miles of side hill trail is also going to be a
big job as well as removing rocks, trees, etc.. that have fallen.  
 
I will let you know how the work is going on from time to time.  Also,
please understand that the closure remains in effect and that people are not
allowed to work on trails.  I will do all that I can in the near future to
provide some volunteer opportunities to work on the trails.
 
Thanks for your interest!
 
Andy
 
Andrew Smith
Natural Resource Specialist
San Bernardino N.F.
San Jacinto R.D.