The USDA announced closures to Kisatchie National Forest after a tornado ripped through the area on Monday.
The tornado that moved through Vernon and Rapides Parishes destroyed approximately 2,500 acres on the Kisatchie National Forest's Calcasieu Ranger District, according to the USDA.
"Thousands of trees are down with many damaged and leaning trees still standing."
As a result, The USDA has designated areas in the Calcasieu Ranger District as closed to ALL visitor activities, including hunting. All National Forest System roads and trails within the closure areas are also closed to the public.
There are a few exceptions such as Fullerton Lake and its Day-Use Area and Campground, Government Pond and Campground, Valentine Lake and Campground, and the East Boat Ramp of Kincaid Lake which are open to the public. However, any trails associated with these areas are CLOSED.
The closure is effective December 19 until rescinded by the USDA Forest Service, not to exceed two years.
Closure area maps will be updated as assessments are made and areas are opened. For updated information and maps, please visit the U.S. Forest Service - Kisatchie National Forest Facebook page, the Kisatchie National Forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/kisatchie or call the Calcasieu Ranger District office at (318)793-9427 or the Supervisor's Office of the Kisatchie National Forest at (318)473-7160.
