Gunnison National Forest Moves to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

(Gunnison, CO, June 22, 2026)—Based on persistent severe fire conditions, Gunnison National Forest will begin Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23. While the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests often coordinate restriction levels in tandem, current conditions require moving the Gunnison National Forest into Stage 1 independently at this time.

Fire managers base decisions about fire restrictions on fuel‑moisture measurements, predicted weather, regional fire activity, and other risk factors. Fire danger is increasing, and these restrictions are being implemented to protect public and firefighter safety amid current and anticipated elevated wildfire risk. Restrictions will remain in place until further notice.

Forest officials will continue to monitor conditions and assess whether further action is needed, including potential additional restrictions if hot and dry conditions persist — or easing restrictions if widespread moisture develops.

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, the following are PROHIBITED:

• Igniting, building, attending, maintaining or using a fire — including fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes — outside of a permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the Forest Service has installed and maintains at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas). 36 CFR § 261.52(a). EXCEPTIONS:

1.       Stoves or grills solely fueled by liquid petroleum fuels; or

2.      A fully enclosed metal stove, grill, or sheep‑herder–type stove with a chimney at least five feet in length and a mesh‑screen spark arrestor with openings of ¼ inch or less; or

3.      A permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the U.S. Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas).

•  Using an explosive. This includes, but is not limited to, fuses, blasting caps, fireworks, rockets, exploding targets, tracers, and incendiary ammunition. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(b)
• Smoking is prohibited, except in an enclosed vehicle, building, or a developed recreation site, 36 CFR § 261.52(d)
• Blasting, welding, or operating acetylene or other torches with an open flame without being in a cleared area at least 10 feet in diameter and keeping a chemical‑pressurized fire extinguisher (minimum 8 oz. capacity and rating of 2A) with the operator. 36 CFR § 261.52(h)

A map of the area can be found here.

Violation of these regulations is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor, with fines of up to $5,000 for individuals or $10,000 for organizations, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Anyone negligently or willfully starting a wildfire may be held financially responsible for the costs of suppression.

Nearly 90 percent of wildfires on public lands are caused by humans. Forest visitors share responsibility for preventing unwanted wildfires by recreating responsibly and adhering to all fire restrictions. To report a fire, call 9‑1‑1. As we approach July 4, visitors are reminded that fireworks are never allowed on federally managed lands.

For fire‑restriction updates, conditions and recreation information, visit the official GMUG website, Facebook or GMUG Fire Information Line at 970‑874‑6602.

About the Forest Service: The Forest Service has brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation for more than 100 years. Grounded in world-class science and technology—and rooted in communities—the Forest Service connects people to nature and recreation opportunities. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, supports the nation’s forest industry and energy needs, and operates the largest and most respected wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. By providing assistance to state and private landowners and working with Tribes and other partners, the Forest Service also helps steward an additional 900 million forested acres within the U.S.

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