For Immediate Release
October 8, 2012
Walker Valley recreational area closed due to fire danger
36 miles of trails closed to off road vehicles
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has closed the Walker Valley off-road vehicle (ORV) recreational area due to fire danger. A 24-acre wildfire burning on DNR lands east of Mt. Vernon, in Skagit County, threatens the safety of those using the popular ORV trails.
The 36 miles of trails were closed to public access on Sunday, October 7, and will remain closed until Monday, October 15. The wildfire, which started Saturday, is burning in an area where a recent timber harvest took place, as well as in older standing timber. The fire was 50 percent contained by Sunday evening. The fire has a high potential for renewed growth because of the heavily wooded conditions and the presence of slash piles.
“We are asking for everyone’s patience as we get this fire under control,” said Laurie Bergvall, State Lands Assistant Region Manager for DNR. “As soon as the fire conditions will allow safe return, we will open up the Walker Valley ORV area.”
For updates check http://www.dnr.wa.gov/recreation
Media Contact: Bryan Flint, Director of Communications, 360-870-3853, bryan.flint@dnr.wa.gov
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