BLM urges Fourth of July visitors to recreate responsibly
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LAKEVIEW, Ore. — On the Fourth of July, we celebrate and reflect on the freedom and liberty for all Americans. With thousands of visitors expected to spend their Fourth of July weekend enjoying the outdoors, the risk of human-caused wildfire increases. Fire restrictions are in effect across all public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in the Lakeview District to help reduce the risk of wildfires and protect communities. The BLM also reminds visitors to recreate responsibly this summer for your safety and to protect natural and cultural resources.
“Independence Day brings families and friends together to celebrate on public lands,” said Lakeview District Manager Todd Forbes. “We hope everyone enjoys the holiday safely and responsibly by planning ahead and preparing for crowds.”
The BLM does not allow the use of fireworks on public lands and encourages visitors to plan ahead and be aware of potential hazards such as high summer temperatures.
Visitors planning to explore the outdoors for the Fourth of July weekend are reminded to follow the Leave No Trace principles to keep public lands enjoyable for the next visitors. Please recreate responsibly and safely by following these tips:
- Come prepared, be flexible, and respect other visitors as well as natural and cultural resources on public lands. Check the weather forecast and be prepared for seasonal fluctuations.
- Properly dispose of waste, including human waste, and pack out garbage if trash cans are not available.
- Fireworks and exploding targets cannot be used on public lands.
- Do not leave campfires unattended. Completely extinguish campfires using the “drown, stir and feel” method. Do not leave the site until the campfire site is cold to the touch.
- Park away from and not on dry grass. Ensure tow chains are not dragging and tow straps are secured.
- Observe fire danger restrictions on BLM lands designated as high-risk early in this fire season.
- Ensure spark arresting devices are properly installed and maintained on all internal combustion engines.
- A listing of fire restrictions throughout BLM Oregon is available at https://www.blm.gov/orwafire.
The BLM Lakeview District offices will be closed Tuesday, July 4, in observance of the federal holiday. Fire personnel, law enforcement officers and recreation staff will be patrolling over the holiday.
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.