BLM Bakersfield Field Office modifies fire restrictions
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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Bureau of Land Management Bakersfield Field Office is lifting fire restrictions on Dec. 7 for approximately 640,000 acres of BLM-managed public lands in Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, San Luis Obispo and Tulare counties, due to reduced wildland fire conditions. Fire restrictions will also be lifted from BLM-managed recreational areas, including the Carrizo Plain National Monument, Chimney Peak, Kennedy Meadows, Keysville, Lake Isabella, San Joaquin River Gorge and Three Rivers.
Fire restrictions will remain in effect on approximately 10,000 acres of public lands in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, which neighbor Los Padres National Forest, until Dec. 31.
Public land visitors can again use campfires outside of developed campgrounds and posted recreation sites. The temporary suspension on recreational target shooting was lifted on Oct. 30, and continues to be generally allowed, if it is done in a safe manner and without damaging natural resources or improvements.
The BLM continues to encourage the public to recreate responsibly on public lands and to take precautions to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. Stay local, plan ahead, practice safe social distancing and wear a mask when social distancing is not possible. Find additional tips for recreating responsibly on public lands.
Shooting is strictly prohibited in developed recreation sites and other areas where posted. The following areas remain closed to target shooting: Carrizo Plain National Monument, San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area, Atwell Recreation Area and the Kaweah Area of Critical Environmental Concern, which includes Case Mountain. Visitors are encouraged to check weather conditions for Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches to avoid shooting in hot, dry and windy conditions. Recreational target shooters are required to pack out all spent shells, brass and targets. More information on safe recreational target shooting is available on the BLM website.
The public is reminded to remain cautious and practice good fire safety to help prevent wildland fires when recreating on public lands. Good fire-prevention safety tips include keeping vehicles off dry grass or brush; carrying a fire extinguisher, shovel and water; and getting a permit for any campfire or use of portable gas stoves. California campfire permits are available free online or at BLM, U.S. Forest Service and CAL FIRE offices. Be advised, some BLM lobbies and public rooms are closed to in-person visits.
For more information on preventing wildfires and additional tips for keeping campfires and target shooting safe, visit ReadyForWildfire.org or call the Bakersfield Field Office at 661-391-6000. The field office can also provide additional information on public lands available for target shooting.
Individuals who spark wildfires, intentionally or unintentionally, can be held responsible for fire suppression and repair costs.
The BLM manages more than 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.