Single Publication

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

FOREST SERVICE

NATIONAL FORESTS IN NORTH CAROLINA

PISGAH RANGER DISTRICT

PISGAH FOREST, NORTH CAROLINA

FOREST ORDER# 08-11-07-25-01

Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 CFR §§ 261.50 (a) and (b), the area of National Forest System lands in the “Rattlesnake Branch Fire Area” located on the Pisgah Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest is closed to entry. The area is closed to entering and/or being upon or present. This order is intended to mitigate risks to public health and safety, and to provide for disaster and safety operations, and to protect the resources while responding to and recovering from the Rattlesnake Branch fire. This closure is effective until May 31, 2025, or until rescinded by an authorized Forest Service official, whichever occurs first.

The area that is closed includes National Forest System lands within the Shining Rock Wilderness as depicted on the attached map. Only National Forest System lands are impacted by this closure.

The above prohibited acts are set forth in 36 CFR section 261.53 (e) Special Closures for Public Health or Safety. It is prohibited to go into or be upon any of the area described in this order.

Pursuant to 36 CFR, § 261.50 (e), the following persons or areas are exempt from this Order:

1. Persons with a special use permit or contract specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act of omission.
2. Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.

Executed in Asheville North Carolina, on April 4, 2025.

____________________________

James E. Melonas

FOREST SUPERVISOR

NATIONAL FORESTS IN NORTH CAROLINA

Violations of the above prohibition are punishable by a fine of not more than $5000.00 for an individual and $10,000 for an organization or imprisonment for not more than six months or both. Title 16 USC 551 and Title 18 USC 3559 and 3571.