Sequoia National Park Today, August 25, 2025

Sequoia National Park remains open to visitors with routine operations and no new major incidents reported today.

Illegal Cultivation Site Cleanup Underway Park rangers and Bureau of Land Management agents continue environmental remediation of a 13-acre illegal marijuana cultivation site discovered in mid-August. To date, crews have removed 2,377 mature cannabis plants, a semi-automatic pistol, banned insecticide, and nearly a ton of debris. The operation-initiated following an August 21 National Park Service press release-has employed ground crews and helicopter sling-loads to restore creek diversions, dismantle unauthorized terraces, and rehabilitate two miles of illicit trails carved through old-growth forest.

Environmental Impact Each confiscated plant consumed an estimated 6-8 gallons of creek water daily, depriving local flora, fauna, and downstream communities of critical resources. Toxic runoff from pesticides at the site posed risks to soil microbes and large predators. Rehabilitation costs are projected at $10,000-$15,000 per acre based on U.S. Forest Service estimates.

Visitor Information

• All park trails, roads, and visitor facilities are operating on normal summer schedules.
• Air quality remains good; no smoke advisories are in effect despite ongoing wildfire activity elsewhere in the Sierra Nevada.
• Crystal Cave guided tours continue through September 7, with advance tickets strongly recommended.

Looking Ahead The park service anticipates completing site cleanup and full ecological restoration by early September. Visitors are encouraged to report any signs of unauthorized back-country activity to the NPS tip line at 1-888-653-0009.