August 31 2013
Hampered by heavy-fueled forests, high winds, and low humidity for several weeks, the American fire near Foresthill, California, which started on August 10, 2013 in the American River Ranger District of the Tahoe National Forest, (cause under investigation), was declared 100% contained on August 29th, but not before damaging both the Swinging Bridge and a smaller footbridge on the Tevis Cup/Western States trail.
As soon as safety permits, qualified personnel will inspect the bridges to determine their foundational integrity and identify repairs needed before the public can safely use these structures.
A video of the American Fire can be seen here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VJEUJKdMq0&list=UUZyo46STYVjk8AnGnv0blDA
A detailed summary of the fire can be seen here:
http://yubanet.com/nevada/American.php
With the Labor Day Holiday weekend upon us, Forest visitors are urged to comply with area and road closures. These closures are in place to protect visitors and fire fighters. The closed roads and areas are unsafe due to several factors including: fire-weakened, burned trees that pose a risk of falling; burning holes in the ground from tree roots and stumps; and heavy smoke making visibility extremely poor. These areas and roads will continue to be re-evaluated and will be re-opened as soon as possible.
Donations toward the Tevis trail and bridge rebuilding efforts can be made here:
http://www.teviscup.org/how-to-help/how-to-support-the-western-states-trail
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