Some additional clarification:

– Don’t fly east of where Hwy 18 goes up-mountain from San Bernadino to Crestline.  Consider it a longitude and Do Not cross to the east of it.  There is still CAL FIRE aircraft activity and we will not get in their way.  We also do not want the risk of anyone landing out in the fire affected zone (closure area).

– Further on the above point, DO NOT fly east and claim that you are north of Highway 18 (Rim of the World Scenic Hwy). The two risks previously sated above apply. DON’T DO IT.

– If you use a launch to the north that that leads to XC routes to the north (Blackhawk), you should be both launching and flying well clear of the closure area.  Be certain that your launch and your intended flight keep you clear of the closure area and at no risk of landing out within the closure area, as long as you accomplish that there should be no issues.

– When climbing over Marshall peak or behind it and you intend to transition to the back ridge, you must stay west of Hwy 18.  Notice the little dog leg at the far west limit of the closure area? That’s Panorama Point and we all typically fly right over that.  I know it’s hard, but DON’T DO IT.  If you can’t stay west of Hwy 18 completely then don’t attempt flying to the back ridge, stay out front!

We’ve all been given a chance to continue enjoying free flight at our club despite a major fire, don’t mess it up by attempting to skirt the rules.  There will be eyes on us, so fly safely and make good choices.  Even if someone lands out well clear of the closure area, that can still have negative implications if a rescue is required.  Have fun, but let’s keep it low-key and not take any unnecessary risks.

** Jerome, thanks for the update and links.  All of this data is current and valid. **

The NFS closure is still in effect and remains unchanged.  We will continue to respect that closure and not fly east of HWY 18.

This was not a decision of any individuals, and it is presented as an order because it IS an ORDER from a federal agency.  If anyone is doubtful about that they can review the document again: (the word ORDER is right in the title)  https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1208071.pdf

The CSS BOD did not impose a restriction, the NFS Order did that.  Our launches are on NFS land and we will respect that organization’s efforts to handle forest fire management.  If you disagree with NFS orders then you are free to contact that agency and voice your concerns.  If you disagree with the disparity between posted FAA TFRs and NFS closure maps you are also free to voice your concerns with those agencies respectively.  If you feel your rights to go fly and have fun have been violated during a time of emergency, go hire an attorney and file a suit against the NFS and the FAA (good luck with that).

Meanwhile, CSS members are still able to utilize launches, fly (with minor limitations), and train at the AJX LZ… all while respecting the agencies that are trying to protect our natural resources, private property, and human lives.

As soon as the NFS modifies the closure map or rescinds the order we will update the membership.  I actually expect this to happen toward the end of the month.

Hey CSS Members.

I just got back to the U.S. from flying trip to Oz.  There are no superseding orders or amendments to the previous closure order, so it is expired as of 1 December 2024.

I will double check with the Superintendent’s Office tomorrow morning, but I’m pretty certain we are free to fly without restriction.  I’ll update this thread with results, but I think we are fine either way.