Caldore Fire Photo By: Josh Edelson/AFP
As California begins another devastating fire season, the U.S. Forest Service has announced the temporary closure of all national forests throughout the state. The decision was implemented to ensure the safety of the public and firefighters throughout the ongoing and unpredictable wildfire crisis.
“We do not make this decision lightly, but this is the best choice for public safety,” said Regional Forester Jennifer Eberlien, in a statement. “It is especially hard with the approaching Labor Day weekend, when so many people enjoy our national forests.”
The affected forests will remain closed until September 17th, but could be extended if necessary. The order does not affect the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, which is not in the Pacific Southwest Region.
There are currently 14,341 firefighters battling 15 active large wildfires in California. In total, as of last week, approximately two million acres have burned throughout the state.
The following are the four largest wildfires currently burning:
The Dixie Fire
The Dixie Fire in Butte, Plumas, Tehama, Shasta, and Lassen County has burned 917,579 acres and is 59% contained. The fire has destroyed 688 homes.
The Plumas Bank has started The Dixie Fire Fund to help provide emergency support and community disaster relief to people impacted by the wildfires. If you would like to help, please consider making a donation HERE!
For the most recent fire and evacuation information in the areas affected by the Dixie Fire, CLICK HERE!
The Caldor Fire
The Caldor Fire in El Dorado and Amador County has burned 216,646 acres and is currently 49% contained. The fire has destroyed 700 homes.
If you find injured wildlife in the affected areas, please note the location and call the Wildlife Disaster Network at 1-800-942-6459.
To help the Lake Tahoe community, who have been severely affected by the Caldor Fire, please donate to the El Dorado Community Foundation, HERE! Donations can also be made to El Dorado County Animal Services, HERE!
The Monument Fire
The Monument Fire in Trinity County has burned 184,142 acres and is currently 41% contained.
The French Fire
The French Fire in Kern County has burned 26,702 acres and is currently 52% contained.
A GoFundMe has been started to help those who have lost their businesses, homes, and have been displaced by the Northern California wildfires. For more information on ways that you can help, CLICK HERE!
You can help all animals and our planet by choosing compassion on your plate and in your glass. #GoVeg
