Google Global Site Tag:
ARTICLE
Ochopee – Big Cypress National Preserve has issued a temporary trail closure to promote visitor safety during prescribed fire activity. During the closure, all recreational use, including hiking, hunting, and camping will be prohibited in the designated area. The temporary closure will take effect immediately. The area is anticipated to reopen by press release once all prescribed fire activity has ceased and the area is safe for access. If a longer closure is required due to additional fire activity, an additional press release will be issued. The closure includes the entire length of Florida National and Scenic Trail inside of Big Cypress National Preserve from Oasis Visitor Center north to I-75. The burn area is known as “Bluebird” and is located north of Oasis Visitor Center, east of Sandy Trail, south of Rock Road, and west of Eleven Mile Road. The lands north of Bluebird Trail within the burn area are also closed. The burn area is located entirely within Big Cypress National Preserve. Please see the attached map for additional detail and the location. “Prescribed fire is a carefully planned fire that uses fire science and specific environmental conditions to meet management goals for the preserve,” said Big Cypress Superintendent Tamara Whittington. “A controlled burn, or prescribed fire, is one of our best tools to help create a mosaic of diverse habitats, manage for our endangered species, and reduce the threat of a destructive fire.” The prescribed fire activity is managed by the Southwest Florida and Caribbean Fire and Aviation Management Program (SWFLCAR), a cooperative program between Big Cypress National Preserve and the US Fish and Wildlife Service Region 4, District 6. Questions about the fire may be directed to the contact above or the SWFLCAR Duty Officer, available any time, 239-719-0241. Media questions should be directed to Public Information Officer, Ardrianna McLane, 239-695-1107.