Fire restrictions implemented in central Idaho to reduce wildfire risk
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SALMON, Idaho–The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, and Idaho Department of Lands have implemented Stage 1 fire restrictions, effective at (12:01 am) on Friday, July 28, 2023, to reduce the risk of wildfire. Stage 1 fire restrictions apply to federal, state, state endowment, private forestland and rangelands in east-central Idaho.
Fire danger across east-central Idaho is VERY HIGH. Rangelands and forested lands at all elevations are dry. Fire management officials are hopeful that by initiating Stage 1 fire restrictions, there will be fewer human-caused wildland fires.
The Central Idaho Fire Restrictions Area encompasses those portions of Custer County that are north and east of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area (excluding the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness), BLM-managed public lands in Butte County, and that portion of Lemhi County that is not federal land designated as wilderness.
Under Stage 1 fire restrictions, campfires are allowed only in recreation sites within metal/concrete fire pits. The following acts are prohibited:
- Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire or stove fire, except within a designated recreation site, or on their own land, and only within an owner-provided fire structure (see definition).
- Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or designated recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
There are exceptions listed in the Fire Order. The restrictions will remain in effect until there is a significant change in fire danger.
Take a few minutes to Know Before You Go. Find out what fire restrictions are in place where you plan to visit so that you may Recreate Responsibly Idaho. For additional information on fire restrictions, visit https://www.idl.idaho.gov/fire-management/fire-restrictions-finder/.
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.