BLM Gunnison Field Office announces Stage 1 fire restrictions
MONTROSE, Colo. – Stage 1 fire restrictions go into effect July 3 for all public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Gunnison Field Office within the boundaries of Gunnison, Hinsdale, Saguache, San Juan, Ouray, and Montrose counties. The restrictions align with local orders and guidelines to protect the public’s safety during high fire danger.
“Current and expected weather conditions indicate heightened risk of wildfire” said Gunnison Field Manager Jon Kaminsky. “Implementing Stage 1 Fire Restrictions is a resource management tool to help protect our communities, ecosystems, and natural resources through increased awareness and restrictions on certain activities.”
Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, the following acts are prohibited:
- Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or campfire except within agency-provided fire grates at developed recreation sites. Devices using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel are permitted.
- Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
- Operating a chainsaw without a USDA or SAE approved spark arrester properly installed and working, a chemical fire extinguisher of not less than 8 ounces capacity by weight, and one round point shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches.
- Using a welder, either arc or gas, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, except in cleared areas of at least 10 feet in diameter with a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher of not less than 8 ounces capacity.
- Using exploding targets/fireworks.
Stage 1 fire restrictions on these lands become effective at 12:01 a.m., MDT, July 3, 2025, and will be in place until further notice. Violation of federal fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more than 12 months or both. In addition, those found responsible for starting wildfires will also face restitution costs of suppressing the fire.
Current fire prevention notices for the BLM Southwest District are posted online at: https://www.blm.gov/program s/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/regional-information/colorado/southwest-district
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.