More BLM lands in Northwest Colorado entering Stage 1 fire restrictions

Organization

BLM

Media Contact:

MEEKER, Colo. – The White River and Little Snake field offices, along with Moffat and Rio Blanco counties, will revert from Stage 2 to Stage 1 fire restrictions on Wednesday, September 30. The Colorado River Valley Field Office and Kremmling Field Office in Eagle County will remain in Stage 1 restrictions, while Kremmling Field Office in Grand, Jackson, Routt, and Summit counties will remain in Stage 2 fire restrictions.

“Large fires in Colorado and across the West are still impacting availability of firefighting resources,” said White River Field Manager Kent Walter. “Some of the hazardous fire conditions in northwestern Colorado have abated, however fuels remain extremely dry and receptive to fire, so people need to be very cautious using fire where it is allowed.” Stage 1 fire restrictions prohibit the following acts:

  • Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire except within approved fire grates at developed recreation sites.
  • Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is clear of flammable materials.
  • Operating a chainsaw without a USDA or SAE approved, working spark arrestor and properly installed, a chemical fire extinguisher of at least 8 ounces capacity by weight, and one round-point shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches.
  • Using a welder, either arc or gas, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, except in cleared areas of at least 10 feet in diameter with a chemical fire extinguisher of at least 8 ounces capacity.
  • Using exploding targets.

BLM fire restriction orders and maps of restriction areas are available at Northwest District Fire Restrictions page. General information about fire restrictions throughout Colorado is available at http://www.coemergency.com/p/fire-bans-danger.html.

Fire restrictions will be in place until further notice. In addition to criminal penalties, those found responsible for starting wildfires may also face restitution costs of suppressing the fire.

###


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.