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BLM implements Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in Tres Rios Field Office

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The Bureau of Land Management

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DOLORES, Colo. – Stage 2 fire restrictions begin June 15 for all Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands administered by the Tres Rios Field Office within the boundaries of Archuleta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma, southwest corner of Montrose, and western portion of San Miguel counties, including Canyon of the Ancients National Monument. The restrictions align with local orders and guidelines to protect the public’s safety during high fire danger.

“The hot and windy weather in Southwest Colorado is creating very high to extreme fire danger” said Tres Rios Field Manager Connie Clementson. “Stage 2 fire restrictions will assist in reducing human caused fires in the area until the monsoonal moisture arrives.”

Under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions:

  • No campfires, fires, charcoal/fire pans or grills that are not portable pressurized liquid fuel with shut-off switch.
  • No smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or in at least three feet in diameter in barren area free of all flammable materials.
  • No use of explosive materials, including fireworks, explosive targets, incendiary, or tracer ammunition.
  • No welding or operation of an acetylene or other similar torch with open flame.
  • No operation of any internal combustion engine including chainsaws without a spark-arresting device properly installed and in working order, chemical fire extinguisher and shovel.

Stage 2 fire restrictions on these lands will become effective at 12:01 a.m., MDT, June 15th, 2022, and will be in place until further notice. Violation of federal fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more than 12 months or both. In addition, 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. For West Slope Fire Information visit https://westslopefireinfo.com.

-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.