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Royal Gorge Field Office enters stage 1 fire restrictions

Colorado
Rocky Mountain DO
Royal Gorge FO
Media Contact
BLM Colorado Communications
BLM Office:
Royal Gorge Field Office

CAÑON CITY, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management Royal Gorge Field Office entered stage 1 fire restrictions today because of dry conditions and high fire danger. These restrictions apply to all BLM-administered public lands within the boundaries of Baca, Bent, Crowley, Custer, El Paso, Fremont, Huerfano, Kiowa, Las Animas, Lincoln, Otero, Park, Powers, Pueblo, and Teller counties until rescinded.

“Given the dry and windy conditions we’re experiencing, entering Stage 1 fire restrictions is a necessary step to reduce the risk of wildfires in our area,” said Royal Gorge Field Manager Doug Mayes. “We’re asking everyone to stay alert and be mindful of their actions when outdoors. A single spark can lead to a dangerous situation, and your caution helps protect local communities, firefighters, and our public lands.”

 

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

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.

 

Details about BLM Colorado year-round fire restrictions and tips for preventing wildfires are available online. Learn about fire restrictions throughout the state from the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.  

For more information, please contact the Royal Gorge Field Office at 719-269-8500.  

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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.