Angeles National Forest

News Release

USDA Forest Service

Angeles National Forest

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Recreation Areas Reopened in Big Tujunga Canyon

ARCADIA, CA — August 24, 2007

ARCADIA, Calif. - Two picnic areas in Big Tujunga Canyon on the Angeles National Forest have reopened to public use. Stonyvale and Vogel Flats were closed in July by the LA County Department of Public Health following a positive test find for the plague.

On July 10th, a ground squirrel in Stonyvale Picnic Area was found to be the carrier of fleas which tested positive for the plague. The squirrel was one of twelve that was trapped in the area during routine monitoring. The two sites were closed as a precaution until the area was treated and re-tested. Preventive "dusting" of squirrel burrows in the area ended Monday and the Forest Service received the go-ahead to reopen the areas.

Plague has shown to be a natural condition among ground squirrels in the San Gabriel Mountains. It is transmitted through bites from fleas which are found on squirrels. Previously, squirrels in Big Tujunga Canyon have tested positive for the plague in 1995 and 1996.

Individuals visiting recreational areas within the San Gabriel Mountains need to take certain precautions such as using insect repellants containing DEET and avoiding contact with wild animals that could be carrying plague-positive fleas.

If you are planning a visit to the Forest, please "Know Before You Go," by calling ahead to check on restrictions and local conditions. Visitors are reminded that the fire danger level is "Extreme" and restrictions on all wood and charcoal fires remain in effect for the entire Angeles National Forest.

For more information, please call the Los Angeles River Ranger District at (818) 899-1900 or the LA County Public Health Department at (213) 240-8144.

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