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BLM implements Stage 1 fire restrictions in Uncompahgre Field Office

Organization:

Bureau of Land Management

BLM Office:

Uncompahgre Field Office

Media Contact:

Deana Harms
970-216-3096

MONTROSE, Colo. – Stage 1 fire restrictions begin July 2, 2020 for all Bureau of Land Management Uncompahgre Field Office administered lands within Montrose, San Miguel, Ouray, and Delta counties, as well as portions of Gunnison County. The restrictions align with local orders and guidelines to protect the safety of the public during high fire danger.

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions:

  • 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 fires of any type, including charcoal, outside of developed areas
  • No smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or 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 on these lands will be in place until further notice. Violation of federal fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of not more than $100,000 or imprisonment for not more than 12 months or both. Those found responsible for starting wildfires will also face restitution costs of suppressing the fire.

Fireworks are always prohibited on public lands. More information about fire prevention is available at: https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/get-involved/fire-prevention.

-BLM-

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.