'Very High' Fire Danger and Public Use Restrictions in effect

Starting today, the Willamette National Forest will change from ‘high to ‘very high’ Fire Danger. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) remains as IFPL II. Additionally, fire restrictions will go into effect on the Willamette National Forest on July 15th.

The fire restrictions apply to all lands within the forest except the Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Washington, Waldo Lake, and Diamond Peak Wilderness areas. The recent heat wave has accelerated the drying of fuels across the forest. The dry conditions are susceptible to new ignitions and are conducive to rapid fire spread.

All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, or any other open fires will be prohibited outside of designated campgrounds under a Forest Order. Restrictions will also go into effect for chainsaws in campgrounds off-highway vehicles, and smoking. Portable cooking stoves and lanterns using liquefied or bottled fuel are still allowed as they can be instantly switched off.

Smoking is not allowed except within an enclosed vehicle or building or a developed recreation site. Additionally, welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame is also not allowed. Generators are permitted only in areas devoid of vegetation such as a paved area or developed campsite. Motorized vehicles may operate only on designated trails and roads.

People are cautioned to be aware of current restrictions before they head out and share current information with others who may be unaware of the restrictions. Additionally, fireworks are not allowed in national forests.

Visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/willamette or follow on Facebook and Twitter @WillametteNF for current fire information. To report a wildfire, call 9-1-1.