BLM Mother Lode Field Office eases seasonal fire restrictions
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EL DORADO HILLS, Calif. — As the potential for wildland fire subsides with cooler, wetter weather, the Bureau of Land Management Mother Lode Field Office today is easing seasonal fire restrictions on approximately 230,000-acres of public lands in central California. Recreational target shooting and campfires, with a valid campfire permit, are once again allowed on public lands.
The easing of fire restrictions apply to public lands managed by the Mother Lode Field Office in Amador, Calaveras, Colusa, El Dorado, Mariposa, Merced, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tuolumne and Yuba counties. The easing of restrictions also applies to BLM recreational areas along the American, Merced, Mokelumne, South Yuba and Tuolumne rivers. Fire restrictions were originally initiated on May 27.
The public is reminded to remain cautious and practice good fire safety to help prevent wildland fires when recreating on public lands. Safety tips include keeping vehicles off dry grass or brush; carrying a fire extinguisher, shovel and bucket of water; and getting a permit for any campfire or use of portable gas stoves. California campfire permits are available free at BLM, U.S. Forest Service and CAL FIRE offices, or at ReadyForWildfire.org. Be advised, some BLM lobbies and public rooms are closed to in-person visits.
Recreational target shooters are reminded that hot bullet fragments and exploding targets can spark a wildfire. Tracer round ammunition and incendiary devices are prohibited on BLM-managed public lands. Consider using paper targets to eliminate sparks. Recreational target shooters are required to pack out all spent shells, brass and targets. Individuals who spark wildfires, intentionally or unintentionally, can be held responsible for fire suppression and repair costs. More information on safe recreational target shooting is available on the BLM website.
Year-round fire restrictions remain in place for BLM-managed public lands in California. These restrictions require that a five-foot diameter area must be cleared to bare soil and be free of overhead flammable material before a campfire is used. Anyone using a campfire must have a round point shovel with a handle at least 35-inches-long nearby. The restrictions also prohibit possession or use of fireworks.
The BLM strives to be a good neighbor in the communities it serves, providing opportunities for economic growth with space for traditional uses such as ranching, mining and energy development, and recreational opportunities like hunting and fishing. For specific questions, please call the Mother Lode Field Office at 916-941-3101.
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.