The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is temporarily closing North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve in Butte County to avoid dangerous visitation surges and help slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus).

The property will be closed to all visitors Easter weekend — from sunset on Friday, April 10, 2020, to sunrise Monday, April 13, 2020.

CDFW has also temporarily closed some of its other high public use areas, including Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (Monterey County), Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve (Santa Cruz County), Putah Creek Wildlife Area (Solano County), and some visitor centers and license counters across the state. Before heading to a CDFW property or facility, please contact the regional headquarters office to determine if that facility is open.

CDFW is responsible for over 1 million acres of public lands. Some of these lands remain open and provide an opportunity to recreate and explore the rich diversity of fish, wildlife and habitats that California has to offer. CDFW recommends that all visitors follow guidance for physical distancing (of at least 6 feet) when visiting our public lands. To explore the outdoor opportunities on CDFW public lands, please visit wildlife.ca.gov/lands.

As the situation continues to change, please check with your local public health agency and adhere to guidance they provide. Please stay healthy and safe.