Forest Enacts Fire Restrictions
Sonora, CA – High fire danger has the Forest Service ordering fire restrictions in Moderate Hazard Areas of the Stanislaus National Forest. The fire restriction prohibits campfires, briquette barbecues, and smoking outside developed campgrounds in designated Moderate Hazard Areas of the Forest. Welding and blasting also are prohibited, except by special permit.
Forest Supervisor Susan Skalski noted, “Hot, dry weather and tinder-dry conditions continue to persist in Moderate Hazard Areas of the Forest. This Forest Order serves as an extra measure to help reduce the potential for large and damaging wildfires. We are asking the public’s cooperation in helping us prevent destructive fires before they start.”
Beginning at tomorrow, the following restrictions are in effect by Forest Order in designated Moderate Hazard Areas on the Groveland, Mi-Wok, Summit, and Calaveras Ranger Districts of the Stanislaus National Forest:
- Campfires: Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, (including briquette type barbecue), or stove fire is prohibited, except within developed recreation sites. Persons with a valid California Campfire Permit may use a portable stove or lantern that uses gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel.
- Smoking: Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
- Welding: Operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited, except by permit.
- Explosives: Using an explosive is prohibited, except by permit.
Violators can face a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both for breaking these restrictions. These temporary fire restrictions will remain in effect until the end of the 2013 fire season unless Forest Officials lift the order.
