SFNF Issues Temporary Closure for Segment of Continental Divide Trail Due to Ojitos Fire

SANTA FE, NM –   The Santa Fe National Forest has closed a segment of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) on the Coyote Ranger District to provide for public safety during operations on the Ojitos Fire in the Chama River Wilderness.  The temporary closure is in effect until Aug. 31, 2017, unless it is rescinded earlier.

The restricted area includes CDT #813 from the Ojitos Trailhead at Skull Bridge on the Chama River to the CDT crossing at NM Highway 96, known locally as Ojitos Trail #298.  Potentially hazardous conditions may exist on this trail section until the fire is controlled.

The lightning-caused Ojitos Fire started on July 7 and has grown to approximately 250 acres in steep, rocky terrain with multiple drainages.  Based on accumulated fuel loads and forecasted weather, fire personnel are managing the Ojitos Fire for multiple objectives, including mitigating the risk of destructive high-intensity wildfire and improving forest health and habitat diversity.

Under the closure order, people are prohibited from entering or being upon the closed section of the trail. Through hikers on the CDT should plan a reroute around this section to avoid passing within proximity to the active wildfire.  Weather fluctuations typical this time of year can easily change the direction and intensity of wildfires with little warning.

Federal, state and local officers, members of an organized rescue team or firefighting force, and any others authorized by permit are exempt from the closure order.  Organizations working under an agreement with the Forest Service, like the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, may also be allowed to work in areas cleared by the Coyote Ranger District as safe to enter.

Violation of the closure order is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, imprisonment of not more than six months, or both.