BLM announces emergency fire closure of Lower Birch Creek Wayside near Central, Alaska
FAIRBANKS, Alaska –To protect the public and provide for firefighter safety in light of ongoing wildland fire activity associated with the Turtle fire (#243), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Eastern Interior Field Office is closing the Lower Birch Creek Wayside near mile 140 of the Steese Highway. The wayside closure will restrict river access and parking for Birch Creek Wild and Scenic River. Visitors planning to float Birch Creek should be cautious of fire activity and make plans for an alternate take out access.
The Turtle Fire is part of the Ptarmigan Complex, a group of fires burning near Central and Circle, Alaska. On Friday, the perimeter of the Turtle Fire and the Ikheenijik Fire (#242) joined and have burned approximately 10,000 acres combined. The weather forecast for the area includes extended hot weather increasing the risks of new starts and large fire growth, raising continued concerns about public and firefighter safety.
Until the BLM determines that use of the wayside no longer threatens public or firefighter safety, the public should not use the area, including for parking. Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both (43 CFR § 9212).
The BLM appreciates the public’s cooperation in helping to minimize the number of human-caused wildfires and keeping everyone safe if you encounter wildfire activity while traveling Alaska’s highways by following these tips:
Watch out for firefighters and firefighting equipment in and along the road.
Slow down before entering areas of dense smoke.
Make sure your headlights are on so that you are more visible to others.
To report a wildland fire in Alaska, call 1-800-237-3633 or 911.
For more information on BLM fire closures and restrictions, visit the BLM Alaska Fire Restrictions webpage or contact the BLM Eastern Interior Field Office at (907) 474-2200. Additional information about fire activity across the state can be found at www.akfireinfo.com or by calling the Alaska Interagency Fire Information Office at (907) 356-5511.
-BLM-
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The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.