JOHN DAY – Malheur National Forest offices will close for a portion of the day Thursday so all employees can attend a forestwide employee meeting.

The Supervisor’s Office in John Day and the Prairie City Ranger District office will be closed from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; the Emigrant Creek Ranger District office will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“We feel that it is very important to provide the chance for all forest employees to attend this meeting,” said Steve Beverlin, deputy forest supervisor “There was a lot of great work accomplished this season by our employees; including continuing the Accelerated Restoration program and fire suppression efforts. With the temporary closing of offices, field going employees, as well as office staff are provided the opportunity to attend the meeting.”

Offices will open at regularly scheduled times on the day of the meeting and will re-open at 3 p.m. to provide any needed customer service.