Fire Restrictions Increased For Stanislaus Forest

In spite of the brief rainstorm last week, fire danger in the Stanislaus National Forest continues to increase. On Friday, Forest Service officials increased the restrictions on fire use in the forest up to the 7-thousand foot level elevations. Spokesperson Pat Kaunert says the weather has made for ideal camping conditions, but hasn’t lessened the fire danger. New, increased restrictions include no campfires outside designated recreation areas and no smoking except in a vehicle or building. The restrictions apply in the Groveland, Mi-Wok, Summit and Calaveras Ranger districts.