QUINCY, CA (MPG) - While work is continuing to address urgent health and safety issues ahead of opening recreation sites at Little Grass Valley Reservoir, there are still some opportunities available for those who would like to enjoy the lake.

The boat launch at Black Rock is generally open.  Firefighters are working in the area on hazard tree removal and fuel reduction and may need to close access at any time.

Campgrounds and restroom facilities at Little Grass Valley Reservoir are still closed.

The fishing area is also accessible near the dam.  However, again, restroom facilities are not open yet.

“We are working hard to get the hazard trees removed and the fuel reduction work done while our recreation employees are getting the other maintenance work done at our recreation sites,” said Feather River District Fire Management Officer James Lico.  “With the July Fourth weekend coming up, we are cautiously optimistic that we can get sites on the peninsula cleared to open by next Friday, June 30.”

Estimated opening dates are tentative and those eager to recreate in the area should be prepared for possible cancellations.

Tentative opening date is June 30 for Wyandotte, Tooms, Peninsula Tent campgrounds, Tooms Boat Launch and Pancake Beach Day Use Area in Little Grass Valley.  Black Rock, Horse Camp, Running Deer, Red Feather and Little Beaver campgrounds do not have an estimated opening date.

“Conditions on the lake are great and fishing should be good,” Lico said.  “This weekend the weather should be awesome for a fishing trip at Little Grass Valley and to enjoy some time in our iconic mountain communities, like La Porte.”

Weather can be variable this time of year.  This week has seen temperatures significantly below average.  There is generally a risk of thunderstorms popping up as well.  Visitors to the Forest should be prepared for changing conditions.

Lakes and rivers are also exceptionally cold and running fast due to runoff from snowpack.  This includes Little Grass Valley Reservoir.  Cold lake temperatures increase the risk of hypothermia.  Caution should be used if swimming or playing in the lake.

Area residents and visitors are advised to watch for ongoing firefighter traffic in the coming days as operations to open Little Grass Valley Recreation Area continue.

For more information on the Plumas National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/plumas or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas.