NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: June 8, 2004
Contact: Debbie Santiago Phone 661-391-6097
        #CCal-04-30

BLM Implements Wildland Fire Restrictions on Public Lands in Kern and Tulare Counties

Due to extreme dry conditions, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is implementing fire restrictions on all BLM public lands in Kern and Tulare counties, including popular recreation areas in the Kern River Valley and Chimney Peak/Kennedy Meadow.

These special limitations prohibit the use of any open fires on BLM public lands due to extremely dry grass and brush. The fire restrictions are effective starting Friday, June 11, 2004 and will remain effective until further notice. Campers are urged to be familiar with special limitations prior to visiting public lands in these areas.

The following activities are permitted during fire restrictions:

• Only lanterns and portable stoves are permitted using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel outside of developed recreation sites or designated fire use areas.
• A valid California campfire permit is required. Campfire permits are available free of charge at any BLM or Forest Service office.
  
• Vehicles must stay on designated roads.

The following activities are prohibited:

• No open fires are allowed on public lands in any dispersed area.
• No smoking is allowed, except within a vehicle or enclosed area.
  
• No welding or any torch is allowed with an open flame, except by special permit.
• No explosives are allowed, except by special permit.

Violations are punishable by fines up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment for up to one year in jail. For additional information contact BLM's Bakersfield Field Office at 661-391-6000.

-BLM-

Bakersfield Field Office - 3801 Pegasus Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93308
www.ca.blm.gov