BLM Fire Restrictions ended July 22, 2011

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News

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Stats

[AZ-Ted]

From the BLM Press Release dated May 9, 2011:

"(PHOENIX, AZ. May 9, 2011)—The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) implements on May 11, 2011 restrictions that greatly reduce the risk of wild fires on public lands north and south of Phoenix, Arizona. 

With April and May temperatures frequently above average, the vegetation is exceedingly dry and the risk of wildland fire is at the Very High and Extreme level.  People who enjoy public lands north and south of Phoenix can reduce the risk of fire by practicing safety and strictly adhering to these “fire restrictions and safety tips:”
1.   Do not build or use a fire, campfire, charcoal broiler or wood stove.  Use of propane and petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is currently allowed.
2.   No smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
3.   No discharging a firearm (no target shooting or other shooting) outside of taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws in hunting season.
4.   Be aware that driving off-road over dry grass could ignite a fire; be sure that all vehicles and tires are in excellent working order; chains or other recreational trailer equipment must not drag or dangle from the truck; secure all recreational equipment; it’s always a good idea to carry a fire extinguisher.

Fire restrictions are in effect until further notice for all public lands administrated by the BLM Phoenix District – including popular areas such as the Ague Fria National Monument, the Table Mesa Recreation or Boulders Staging Camp Ground north of Phoenix, the Back Country Byways west of Phoenix, the Sonoran Desert National Monument, Saddle Mountain Recreation Area, and the Painted Rock Petroglyph site, southwest of Phoenix, and all wilderness areas.  Violation of these Fire Restrictions is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000, or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both. (43 CFR 9212.4).

Fire restrictions for public lands may vary in other parts of the state, depending on the level of fire danger and may be accessed at: www.azfireinfo.com  or for information on fire prevention tips and restrictions in your area, contact your local BLM office, or visit BLM’s website at www.az.blm.gov."

[AZ-Ted]

***BLM Lifts Fire Restrictions as of July 22, 2011***:

"PHOENIX, AZ— Effective Friday, July 22, 2011 at 6:00 a.m., the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will lift fire restrictions on public lands in south-central and central Arizona under the jurisdiction of the BLM Phoenix District.  The recent onset of the summer monsoon has brought moisture and higher relative humidity to most areas significantly reducing the risk of large wildfires.   

Visitors are reminded that the potential to start a wildfire still exists since not all areas have received significant rainfall.  Please keep the following in mind and use caution when recreating on your public lands:

·        Campfire Use:  Clear vegetation and flammable materials from at least five feet around the area of the campfire, cook stove, or lantern.  Never leave a campfire unattended and ensure that campfires are completely out and cold before leaving your campsite.
·        Smoking:  Smokers are encouraged to use ashtrays and to need to extinguish all cigarettes and cigars.   
·        Equipment Operations:  Ensure that the proper spark arrestor devices are in place when operating chainsaws, off-highway vehicles, or other spark producing equipment.  A fire extinguisher must be on hand when using a welder or torch in the field.   
·        Motorized Use:  Always stay on roads and only park in areas void of vegetation.  Direct contact or sparks from hot catalytic converters can ignite dry grass."

[The BN Guy]

Good for you guys!  About time but it's a little late for me as I'm back in TX.  We're still needing rain here desperately.