In an ongoing effort to protect habitat of an endangered frog species, Angeles National Forest officials have continued the closure of the Williamson Rock area until Dec. 31, 2013.

“This ongoing closure limits access to about 1,000 acres north of Angeles Crest Highway near Eagles Roost, and has been in place since December 2005,” said Angeles National Forest Officials.

The new Forest Service order for another year was effective Tuesday (Jan. 1).

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“This effort allows the Forest Service to protect the mountain yellow-legged frog, an endangered species,” Angeles National Forest Officials said.

The closure was first announced after officials determined the area was critical habitat for the frog and in June 2011, a U.S. district judge ordered the Angeles to close access to the Williamson Rock area as part of a larger lawsuit.

Forest officials are preparing an environmental assessment to determine the best management strategy to stabilize the frog population.

The forest offers a hiking detour around the affected area. Hikers can depart the Pacific Crest Trail (northbound) at Eagles Roost and take Angeles Crest Highway to Cloudburst Summit, a distance of 4.5 miles.

Visitors should “Know before you go” about local conditions before traveling to any area of the Angeles National Forest. For more information, access the Angeles National Forest website by clicking here.

Article Name: Closure of Williamson Rock to Protect Endangered Frog Continues
Article Source: Santa Clarita News
Author: David N. Perez, Contently, Google+, Twitter