BLM implements Stage 1 Fire Restrictions in Gunnison and Uncompahgre Field Offices
MONTROSE, Colo. – Stage 1 fire restrictions begin June 15 for all Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands administered by the Gunnison and Uncompahgre Field Offices within the boundaries of Delta, Gunnison, Montrose, Ouray, San Juan, San Miguel and portions of Hinsdale and Saguache counties, including Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, and the Uncompahgre Field Office side of Dominguez Escalante National Conservation Area. The restrictions align with local orders and guidelines to protect the public’s safety during high fire danger.
“The fire danger indices within the Southwest District are at very high to extreme, including high elevations” said acting Southwest District Fire Management Officer James Savage. “These restrictions are being put in place due to the persistent drought and weather conditions.”
Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions:
- Campfires are only allowed within designated fire grates in developed campgrounds (i.e. a metal, in-ground containment structure – fire pans and rock campfire rings are not acceptable)
- No fires of any type, including charcoal, outside of developed areas.
- No smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or in a barren area free of vegetation
- No use of explosive materials, including explosive targets.
- No welding or operation of an acetylene or other similar torch with open flame except an area that has been cleared of vegetation.
- No operation of any internal combustion engine without a spark-arresting device properly installed and in working order.
Stage 1 fire restrictions on these lands will become effective at 12:01 a.m., MDT, June 15th, 2022, and will be in place until further notice. Violation of federal fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more than 12 months or both. In addition, those found responsible for starting wildfires will also face restitution costs of suppressing the fire.
Fireworks are always prohibited on public lands. More information about fire prevention is available at: https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/get-involved/fire-prevention. For West Slope Fire Information visit https://westslopefireinfo.com.
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The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
