Public Safety Alert – Plumas National Forest
Sierrra Rec Magazine – QUINCY, CALIF. June 2, 2020 – The Fern Falls Trail Bridge is closed to protect the visiting public, until it can be demolished and removed, likely in summer 2020. Lower Fern Falls (non-motorized) Trail (#12E41) remains open and may be accessed by fording Graeagle Creek at low water.
An inspection by Plumas National Forest personnel reveals extensive rot in the logs (stringers) underlying and supporting the bridge surface (deck). In fact, the stringers are described as being composed of “sawdust” and being held together by “the outside shell.” As such, the bridge is slated for demolition (anticipated summer 2020) and eventual reconstruction (anticipated summer 2021).
People exempt from Forest Order No. 05-11-01-20-01 include people with a permit from the Forest Service specifically authorizing them access, people with a contract from the Forest Service authorizing work on the closed bridge to the extent authorized by the contract and, any federal, state and local officers or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
For alternate route information or information about bridge construction, please call the Beckwourth Ranger District at (530) 836-2575.
See the Forest Order, including a map, at local Forest Service offices or on the web at https://www.fs.usda.gov/plumas .
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