Courtesy/SFNF

SFNF News:

SANTA FE – The Santa Fe National Forest today announced the closure of Forest Road (FR) 263 and the E.V. Long Campground on the Pecos/Las Vegas Ranger District due to extreme soil moisture and flood risk. 

The restricted area includes the E.V. Long Campground next to Gallinas Creek as well as the entire length of FR 263 behind the locked gate at Oak Flats and land surrounding the road, including the Burro Mesa Trail Head, Big Pine, Fishing Hole and Baker Flats day use areas.

The closure will protect natural resources and infrastructure in the area, including wildlife, watershed and roads, from damage due to saturated soils. 

The closure order is in effect until Sept. 30, 2015, unless conditions allow it to be rescinded earlier. Signs will be posted on gates in the closure area, and Forest personnel will enforce the closure.

Federal, state and local officers, members of an organized rescue team or firefighting force, landowners who need to cross National Forest System land to access their private property, and any others authorized by valid contract, operating plan or special use permit are exempt from the closure order. 

The closure order is in compliance with federal regulations that allow closures for the short-term protection of resources and public health and safety. Copies of the closure order and maps are available at the Santa Fe National Forest Headquarters and the Pecos/Las Vegas District Offices.