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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT NEWS RELEASE
Phoenix District
 
Release Date: 05/14/09
Contacts: Pamela Mathis , 623-580-5509  
  Ken Shaver , 623-580-5578  

BLM Implements "Fire Restrictions" for Phoenix Area Public Lands


PHOENIX, AZ. — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) implemented fire restrictions on May 14, to reduce the risk of fire on public lands north and south of Phoenix, Arizona. 

With May temperatures well above average, the vegetation is exceedingly dry and the risk of wildland fire is at the Very High to Extreme level. People who enjoy public lands north and south of Phoenix can reduce the risk of fire by practicing safety and strictly adhering to these “fire prevention restrictions and safety tips:” 

1.      Do not build or use a fire, campfire, charcoal broiler or wood stove.  Use of propane and petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices 
         is currently allowed. 
2.      No smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
3.      No discharging a firearm (no target shooting or other shooting) outside of taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws in hunting season.
4.      Be aware that driving off-road over dry grass could ignite a fire; be sure that all vehicles and tires are in excellent working order; chains or other
         recreational equipment must not drag or dangle from the truck or trailer to the ground; secure all recreational equipment; it’s always a good idea
         to carry a fire extinguisher.

Fire prevention restrictions are in effect until further notice for all public lands administrated by the BLM Phoenix District – including popular areas such as the Agua Fria National Monument, the Table Mesa Recreation or Boulders Staging Campground north of Phoenix, the Harquahala Mountain Back Country Byways west of Phoenix, the Sonoran Desert National Monument, Saddle Mountain Recreation Area, Painted Rock Petroglyph Site  southwest of Phoenix, and all wilderness areas. Violation of these Fire Prevention Restrictions is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000, or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. (43 CFR 9212.4).
 
Fire restrictions for public lands may vary in other parts of the state, depending on the level of fire danger and detailed information may be accessed at: www.azfireinfo.com or for information on fire prevention tips and restrictions in your area, contact your local BLM office, or visit BLM’s website at www.az.blm.gov.   

The BLM manages more land - 253 million acres - than any other Federal agency. This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The Bureau, with a budget of about $1 billion, also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM's multiple-use mission is to sustain the health and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. The Bureau accomplishes this by managing such activities as outdoor recreation, livestock grazing, mineral development, and energy production, and by conserving natural, historical, cultural, and other resources on public lands.

--BLM--

Phoenix District   21605 North 7th Avenue      Phoenix, AZ 85027  

Last updated: 05-26-2009