Fire restrictions implemented June 28 for Uncompahgre and Gunnison Field Offices

MONTROSE, CO – Fire restrictions take effect at 8 a.m., on Wednesday, June 28, for all public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management Uncompahgre and Gunnison Field Offices, as well as the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests administered by the USDA Forest Service. The Montrose Interagency Fire Management Unit, in collaboration with local and county agencies, protects much of western Colorado, which is experiencing very high to extreme fire danger. Public lands and national forests lying within Delta, Mesa, Montrose, San Miguel, Ouray, Gunnison, Saguache and Hinsdale counties are included in these Stage I restrictions.

“The Stage I fire restrictions are temporary, but if hot and dry conditions persist, fire officials may move into Stage II restrictions, which are more stringent,” Fire Management Officer Steve Ellis said. “This is also a good time to remind folks that fireworks are prohibited on all public lands and national forests year-round. We want you to have a safe and fun holiday weekend, and suggest that you enjoy your local community fireworks display.”

Prompted by little measurable moisture and recent record-breaking temperatures, the BLM Uncompahgre and Gunnison Field Managers and USDA Forest Supervisor executed a Fire Prevention Order for their jurisdictions. Stage I temporary fire restrictions, in place until further notice, are as follows:
· campfires only allowed within designated fire grates in developed/signed campgrounds
· no smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed/signed recreation site or in a barren area free of vegetation
· no use of explosive materials
· no welding or operation of an acetylene or other similar torch with open flame
· no operation of any internal combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed and in working order

The ramifications to those who choose to be careless and disregard fire restrictions are severe. Violators may be held liable for the costs of the firefighting effort. For more information on statewide fire restrictions, go to http://www.dola.state.co.us/oem/PublicInformation/firebans/firebans2006.htm. Call (970) 240-5300 for information on interagency fire restrictions specific to these areas.

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