Fire restrictions prohibiting campfires announced in Colorado’s mountains amid dry spell
The fire restrictions prohibit campfires at dispersed camping sites and ban the use of explosive materials
Upper Colorado River Interagency Fire Management Unit/Courtesy photo
Fire restrictions will begin Friday, June 27, for all lands managed by the White River National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management Upper Colorado River District, according to a news release.
Under the Stage 1 restrictions that will be instituted, campfires are not allowed anywhere — including dispersed camping sites — other than within designated fire grates in developed campgrounds.
“Fire restrictions are prudent at this time considering the long-range forecast, fuel moisture conditions on the ground, and the continued high public visitation,” White River National Forest Supervisor Brian Glaspell said in a statement. “In developed campgrounds where campfires are permitted, please ensure your fire is completely out and cold before leaving.”
The restrictions prohibit fires of any kind, including charcoal, except in developed areas. The restrictions also ban smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or in a barren area free of vegetation.
The use of explosive materials, including explosive targets, is prohibited under Stage 1 restrictions. The restrictions also place limitations on the use of welding equipment and internal combustion engines that lack a working spark arresting device.
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Unincorporated private lands in Eagle, Garfield, Mesa, Pitkin, and Summit counties will also enter fire restrictions this week, the release states.
For more information about the White River National Forest, call 970-945-2521 or visit FS.USDA.gov/r02/whiteriver. For information on the Upper Colorado River District, call 970-244-3000 or visit the BLM.gov website.
