Talladega National Forest Caney Head Wildfire, Cheaha Wilderness

News

3/29/16 Update:

The USDA Forest Service has opened all trails in the Cheaha Wilderness after rains significantly reduced fire activity and helped firefighters contain the Caney Head wildfire to 100 percent.

According to District Ranger Gloria Nielsen, the rainfall from the last couple of days extinguished the few areas that were still burning in the Cheaha Wilderness last weekend. Trails are open for visitors.

Forest Service officials advise visitors to watch for natural hazards around the fire’s perimeter. Visitors must always be aware of hazards such as holes, dead trees and rocky terrain because of the natural condition of the Cheaha Wilderness. Wildfires can create holes from burned stumps and weaken the roots of trees. As vegetation grows, it will hide some of the holes.

“We were very pleased with the support of the local communities and forest visitors during the past week of the Caney Head wildfire,” said Nielsen. As the peak spring visitation approaches, Forest Service officials expect visitors to return to the Cheaha Wilderness and ask them to be extra cautious if hiking around the fire area.