FIRE RESTRICTIONS GO INTO EFFECT

Fire restriction orders went into effect Friday on all Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest lands due to increased fire danger brought on by hot, dry weather and extremely dry conditions.

The restrictions will cover all Bridgeport District lands below 9,000 foot elevation outside of a developed recreation site.

The Hoover Wilderness and proposed western addition to the Hoover Wilderness are exempt.

Restrictions include campfires, barbecues, welding and smoking outside of developed areas.

-- No campfires or barbecues allowed outside of developed recreation sites. Portable stoves using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel are exempt.

-- No smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

-- No welding or operating an acetylene torch with open flames, except by permit.

-- No use of explosives, except by permit.

A list of designated campgrounds is available at the Bridgeport Ranger Station. If hot, dry weather conditions continue, fire restrictions could be extended to include elevations above 9,000 feet.

Personal use firewood gathering, as authorized through a fuel-wood permit, is still permitted, However, if fire conditions worsen, further restrictions my be put into effect.

For information call Bill Bryant or Kathy Lucich at (760) 760-932-7070 or the Forest Supervisor's Office at (775) 355-5301.