Public barred from entering state parks, Fish and Wildlife lands

OLYMPIA -- The state earlier today announced all publicly owned lands managed by Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission and Department of Fish and Wildlife are closed to the public.

The closure will last at least two weeks, officials said, noting it includes wildlife areas as well as public access areas such as trailheads and boat launch facilities.

Gates and facilities will be locked and all public services suspended, officials said.

Rangers will be "present to preserve and protect" resources," officials said.

The closure follows the previous closure of campgrounds on all state-mana...