BLM Bishop Field Office eases seasonal fire restrictions
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Bishop, Calif. — Effective Jan. 6, the Bureau of Land Management Bishop Field Office is easing seasonal fire restrictions on all BLM-managed public lands extending from the southern Owens Valley in Inyo County, north to Topaz Lake and the Nevada border in Mono County. The year-round statewide Fire Prevention Order remains in effect.
The BLM is easing fire restrictions for the Eastern Sierra Region in close coordination with the CAL FIRE San Bernardino/Inyo/Mono Unit. The eased restrictions affect popular BLM-managed recreational areas in the region including the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area, Inyo Mountains Wilderness, Volcanic Tableland, Long Valley, Adobe Valley, Mono Basin, Bodie Hills, Bridgeport Valley and Slinkard Valley.
Public land visitors can again use campfires outside of developed campgrounds and posted recreation sites. Target shooting is generally allowed if it is done safely and without littering or damaging natural resources or infrastructure.
Visitors are encouraged to check weather conditions for Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches to avoid campfires and target 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.
The BLM encourages 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.
For more information on preventing wildfires and additional tips for keeping campfires and target shooting safe, visit ReadyForWildfire.org or call the Bishop Field Office at 760-872-5000.
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.