Dugan Fire Closure Modified, Opening of Roads
Incident: Dugan Fire Wildfire
Released: 11/30/2012
Ekalaka, MT - The Sioux Ranger District, Custer National Forest has completed hazard tree removal on many roads and will be opening several routes within the Dugan Fire perimeter. The closure order in the Ekalaka Hills unit has been lifted on the following roads: JP Smith Road #3814, Hidden Springs Road #3104, Ekalaka Park Road #3813, Ridge Road #3812, and roads 3071 and 3812A1.
In the spring, remaining rehab work will need to be completed within the fire's perimeter, specifically replacing culverts along JP Smith Road (#3814), Dugan Draw (#3811), Ekalaka Park Road (#3813) and Hidden Springs Road (#3104) to handle the increased runoff expected from the Dugan Fire area. Fencing, infrastructure repair (including signs and picnic tables) and noxious weed detection and eradication will continue during the spring and into next summer. Signs will be posted along these routes when this work occurs.
A portion of the current fire closure will remain in effect until further notice to complete multiple safety concerns including additional hazard tree removal. Dugan Draw (FS road #3811) and a spur road 38111, along with Ekalaka Park Campground will remain closed.
When traveling within the fire perimeter, please take extra precautions and be acutely aware of your surroundings, including dangerous snags and burned out stump holes.
The Ridge Timber Sale has been cancelled due to the damage received by the Dugan Fire. The Custer National Forest does anticipate a salvage timber sale, if possible in the future. For more information please contact the Custer National Forest, Sioux R.D. at (605)-797-4432. Closure information can be accessed under the Dugan Fire at http://www.inciweb.org/. Custer National Forest info is available online at: www.fs.usda.gov/custer.
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