Schaeffer Fire

Schaeffer Fire Area, Roads, and Trails Closure Rescinded

PORTERVILLE, Calif., July 27, 2017 - Forest Service officials rescinded the Schaeffer Fire Area Closure Order within the Kern River and Western Divide Ranger Districts as of Friday, July 28, 2017. The fire is currently 94% contained. Smoke in the interior may continue for several weeks and fire suppression resources will remain on scene to monitor the area.

Roads and trails within the closure area, including Sherman Pass and Monache roads are now open. Rattlesnake Trail #33E22 will remain closed due to pre-existing conditions. Please remain cautious when visiting the area's roads and trails. Hazards that remain within the closure area include burning stumps, hot spots, ash, hazard trees, and snags.

The lightning caused Schaeffer Fire started, Saturday, June 24, 2017, when a storm passed through the Kern River Ranger District of the Sequoia National Forest. In the interest of Forest visitor and firefighter health and safety, Forest officials placed the Schaeffer Fire Area Closure Order, July 8, 2017.

For more information, call the Kernville Ranger Station at 760-376-3781. The district office is open 7-days a week, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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