The Sierra National Forest has released information for permit holders whose cabins were impacted by the Creek Fire, including access information separate from the organized re-entry weekends at Huntington Lake and an overview of the process for cabins lost in the fire.

Cabin Access

All permit holders will continue to need approval to access their permitted areas at Huntington Lake for the time being.  The Forest Service will perform a “Safety Analysis” prior to approving access, to ensure conditions in the permitted area and surrounding areas are safe for access.  The instructions are unclear on whether there will be any additional discretion applied in determining whether to provide access.  Permit holders who would like to access their area will need to complete two forms: an FS-7700 Entry Authorization form, and an FS213 Mission Description form (link unavailable at this time).  Once completed, e-mail these forms to the Public Affairs officer at SM.FS.sierranfinfo@usda.gov and you will be contacted with either approval or denial of your request.

Path Forward for Lost Cabins

Permit holders whose cabins were lost in the fire will have two options: rebuilding their cabins, or abandoning the permit and lot.

Rebuilding will require an initial determination that the lot is safe to build on, including stability of slopes and soils, hazard trees, and flood plain analysis.  Permit holders will receive a letter with this determination, at which point they will have one year (possibly more upon request) to decide whether or not to rebuild and to submit plans.  Once plans are approved, the permit holder will have two years (possibly more upon request) in which to rebuild.  Importantly, only permit holders will be able to rebuild; the cabin remains may not be sold to a new person to become the new permit holder.

If a permit holder chooses to abandon their permit and the lot, they will be responsible for “returning the site to the natural state, excluding vegetation.”  This includes cleaning up and removing the structures, facilities, water and septic lines from the lot.

More information

You can download the full set of information and instructions from the USFS here.

Sean Wilson is the creator and administrator of the Raised at Huntington Lake project, and a fourth-generation cabin owner at Idylwilde Tract.  You can reach him at sean@raisedathuntingtonlake.com.