Extremely dry, hot weather and heavy vegetation has created a high risk for fire on the National Forest.В As a result, all campfires and stove fires (wood, charcoal, coal) are restricted to designated fire rings in developed campgrounds and picnic grounds on the Moab/Monticello Districts of the Manti-La Sal National Forest.В The fire restrictions went into effect June 12.
Under the restrictions, it is not lawful to create a fire ring and build a fire within it. Petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns and heaters may be used, provided they meet fire underwriters’ safety standards.
Developed campgrounds and picnic areas are those sites established by the Forest Service for camping or picnicking that have constructed fire rings and other amenities such as parking space, picnic tables, and toilets.
The dry winter, continued hot, dry weather and lots of dead vegetation from last summer have created ideal conditions for wildfire.В Dead fuel (vegetation) moisture is less than five percent in the area, according to the Eastern Great Basin Coordinating Center.
“Risk of fire is severe this year,” said Mike Diem, District Ranger. “We saw what could happen in the Sunrise Mine Fire and in fires all over the west. People need to be especially careful with fire and sources of fire.
He recommends that visitors to the forest follow these guidelines:
Use sticks and logs that are not larger than the fire pit. Stay With Your Campfire — Be sure someone is near it, watching it at all times. Put your campfire out – COLD.В Drown it.В Stir it. Check it. Repeat.
Allowing your fire to escape may cost you and require an appearance in federal court.
Remember fireworks are never allowed on the National Forest.
The Forest Service is also asking its neighbors who own forested lands to use extreme caution with fire.
For more information about Utah wildfires and fire conditions see www.utahfireinfo.gov.