BLM to enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions
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GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — Stage 1 fire restrictions begin Friday, July 21 for Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered lands for the Grand Junction and Colorado River Valley Field Offices in Mesa and Garfield counties.
Recent hot and windy conditions across Colorado have dried out lower elevation fuels, while thunderstorms have delivered lightning with little or no moisture. Based on these recent conditions of fuels and weather, officials decided to implement stage 1 fire restrictions beginning July 21.
“High temperatures and dry conditions have resulted in high fire danger throughout our area,” stated Fire Management Officer Tommy Hayes. “We have had numerous human-caused fires lately, so please use caution while enjoying public lands.”
The BLM will enforce the following temporary restrictions on all BLM public lands under stage 1 fire restrictions until further notice:
- Campfires are only allowed within designated fire grates in developed campgrounds (i.e. a metal, in-ground containment structure -- fire pans and rock campfire rings are not acceptable).
- No smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or in a barren area free of vegetation.
- No use of explosive materials, including explosive targets.
- No welding or operation of an acetylene or other similar torch with open flame except from an area that has been cleared of vegetation.
- No operation of any internal combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed and in working order.
Stage 1 fire restrictions only allow campfires in developed recreation sites, such as formal campgrounds or picnic areas where permanent fire grates are installed. In these areas, people must monitor their fire at all times, and a have shovel and plenty of water available to put it out – the fire is out when coals are cold to the touch.
Additionally, people should avoid parking in tall, dry grass; equipment should have working spark arresters, and trailers should be inspected to ensure chains do not drag.
Fire restriction orders are available at BLM Colorado Upper Colorado River District Fire Restrictions.
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.