JOHN DAY — The Malheur National Forest has lifted the area closure for the Courtrock Fire on the Blue Mountain Ranger District, the agency announced on Tuesday, Sept. 17.

The fire burned an estimated 20,000 acres south of Monument and west of Long Creek earlier this summer.

When entering an area that has been recently burned by wildfire, extreme caution is advised. Watch for falling rocks and rolling logs. Burned-off vegetation creates unstable slopes. Rocks and other debris may roll from steep slopes above.

Look out for tree hazards. Winds can bring down fire-damaged trees and branches. When stopping or camping, look at surrounding trees and avoid those that appear weakened, particularly during strong winds.

“Burned Area” signs have been placed to warn the public about entering the fire area that was burned earlier his summer.