Sierra National Forest
Credit: FWS
August 31, 2019 - Clovis, CA. - Sierra National Forest Officials issue Forest Order #05-15-00-19-09. Campfire and smoking restrictions will be implemented for areas 5,000 ft. and below in the Sierra National Forest, effective Tuesday, September 03, 2019; remaining in effect until the first significant precipitation of the season.
The criteria for activating fire restrictions through Forest Orders are based on National Fire Danger Rating System indices, fuel moisture conditions, and increasing human/lightning caused ignitions
• No Campfires or charcoal fires are allowed, except, in designated campgrounds and areas listed as “Exempt Areas” in the Forest Order exhibits A & B.
• No Smoking is permitted, except within enclosed vehicles or buildings, developed recreation sites and other designated areas listed in the Forest Order exhibits A & B.
• Operating an internal combustion engine off of properly designated roads or trails, is strictly prohibited during the increased fire restriction period.
• Fireworks, exploding targets, tracer rounds and other incendiary ammunition or devices are not allowed in the Sierra National Forest at any time.
• "I am always mindful when imposing restrictions on our visitors, and only do so when current conditions in the forest and in California have reached a point that restricting campfires to developed campgrounds only is appropriate" said Dean Gould, Sierra National Forest Supervisor. "Visitors can help protect their forest by being aware of fire danger and reporting abandoned or illegal fires to 911 or to the nearest Ranger Station."
Visitors, with a valid California Campfire Permit, may use portable stoves and lanterns with shut-off valves, using pressurized gas, liquid fuel, or propane in the general forest areas. Forest visitors must clear all flammable material five feet in all directions from their camp stove, have a shovel available, and ensure that a responsible person attends the stove at all times when in use.
Violation of these fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of no more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization or incarceration for not more than six months, or both.
Human-caused fires can be prevented. One less spark can mean one less wildfire. Do your part to prevent wildfires. To learn more visit www.preventwildfireca.org/one-less-spark-one-less-wildfire.
Forest visitors are encouraged to “Know Before You Go” and call ahead to the local ranger station for local conditions, regulations and bans. For more information contact your local ranger station or visit the Sequoia National
Visitors can also follow us on Twitter at @Sierra_NF, and "Like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SierraNF
Thank you and have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day Weekend
Source: Sierra National Forest
