Bear sightings close campgrounds

DUTCH JOHN, Daggett County — The U.S. Forest Service has closed several campgrounds near Flaming Gorge because of bear sightings.

The Ashley National Forest said black bears have been sighted below Little Hole on the Green River. Because of that, several campgrounds for miles around the area are being closed. They include: Stone Fly I and II, Sand, Bootleg, Cats Paw, Cottonwood, Trails End, Big Pine I and II and Backwater.

"Our number one concern is public safety, and once we know we can safely reopen these campsites we will," said Jeff Schramm, with the Flaming Gorge Ranger District.