Supervisors to Close Recreational Sites to Reduce Wildfire Risks

The Maze Stone in Reinhardt Canyon. Photo via Wiki Commons

By City News Service

To minimize the chances of a wildfire, the Board of Supervisors is expected Tuesday to authorize Riverside County Fire Chief John Hawkins to close access to seven locations that are popular among hikers and off-road enthusiasts.

Since 2007, Hawkins has sought and received authorization to close the grounds -- located mainly in the central and southwest portions of the county -- for the duration of Southern California’s fire season, generally from June to November.

“The potential for large damaging fires occurring this year is enhanced by the continued drought conditions ... throughout Riverside County,” Hawkins said.

Dry conditions raise the risk of wildfires, and fighting them would be challenging given the sites’ terrain and remoteness, according to agency officials.

The following locations would fall under the county’s closure order:

• Avery Canyon, along Gibbel Road, east of State Street in southeast Hemet;
• Indian Canyon and North Mountain in San Jacinto;
• Minto Way in Sage, north of Aguanga;
• Nuevo, east of Menifee Road and San Jacinto Avenue;
• Ramona Bowl and Bautista Canyon, southeast of Hemet;
• Reinhardt Canyon, north of state Route 74 and California Avenue in Hemet; and
• Whitewater Canyon in Cabazon.

By reducing foot and vehicle traffic in each location, the chances of a wildfire starting are much slimmer, according to the fire department.

Closure signs would be posted at entry points to warn potential violators of fines and other penalties. People who reside in or near the locations would be permitted to come and go as they please.

The closures are usually lifted at year’s end but can be rescinded earlier if winter rains come early.