BLM ARCATA FIELD OFFICE LIFTS FIRE RESTRICTIONS
Burning Project Planned for Beach Grass Piles

The onset of fall rains has eased north coast fire dangers, and the Bureau of Land Management's Arcata Field Office has lifted restrictions on the outdoor use of fire on public lands in Humboldt, Trinity, and  Mendocino counties.

"This means that back country visitors can again use campfires outside of developed campgrounds," said Arcata Field Manager Lynda Roush. Campfire permits are still required, however, and can be obtained at any BLM or Forest Service office.

Roush said campers must still use caution with campfires and make sure they are dead out before leaving camp.

The reduced fire danger has also opened the door for BLM to begin burning beach grass that has been cleared from the Manila and Samoa Dunes areas.  The grass, a non-native invasive species, was pulled from dune areas because it crowds out two endangered native plants - the Humboldt Bay wallflower and beach layia.

Piles of grass will be burned on various days through the fall and winter.    Burning will occur only on days that meet air quality standards, and when weather conditions including wind, temperatures and relative humidity are at safe levels.

For additional information on campfires or the upcoming burning projects, contact the Arcata Field Office at (707) 825-2300.

-BLM-