Fireworks and Exploding Targets Ban 2015
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Effective June 1, 2015, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) prohibits the use of fireworks and exploding targets on all BLM-managed public lands throughout Oregon and Washington. The ban will be in effect from June 1 to October 15.This year's low snowpack combined with warmer than normal weather patterns over much of Oregon and lower elevations in eastern Washington may boost the potential for possible wildfires. In recent years we've had longer fire seasons. Fires are burning hotter and longer fueling the costs of fire suppression.“Summer is the time for families and friends to get outside and enjoy our public lands. Please do so carefully. Help protect our wildlife habitats, watersheds, rangelands, and forests -- the lands that work for you," said Jerry Perez, State Director for BLM Oregon/Washington.Those who ignite fireworks or exploding targets on BLM-managed lands can be fined up to $1,000, receive a prison term of up to one year, or both. In addition, individuals responsible for starting wildland fires on federal lands can be billed for the cost of fire suppression.“While lightning can cause wildfires, most wildfires are caused by people including the use of exploding targets. And with more of us living near areas that border public lands, the risk of fire to homes and communities has increased in recent years," explained Perez.The BLM cooperates with the Pacific Northwest Wildfire Coordinating Group to fight wildland fires in the Pacific Northwest. The Geographic Area Coordination Center offers updates on the fire potential regionally and nationally and the NW Coordination Center provides updates in the Pacific Northwest.
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.