A fire lookout near Butte Meadows will remain open for the upcoming fire season. The Colby Mountain Lookout has been described as a critical early fire detection site. The decision marks a reversal from last Fall, when the Forest Service had decided to close and demolish the lookout. That plan drew opposition, including from the Butte County Board of Supervisors, who sent a letter in January of 2026 opposing it. Forest officials said public safety and effective fire detection remain priorities, and that the forest continues to enhance its capabilities with advanced technology, including two ALERTCalifornia cameras on the Colby Mountain Lookout to support early detection and monitoring. Lassen National Forest leadership also said it will work with local communities this year to discuss fire detection and response capabilities and gather input on the lookout’s long-term management.