Due to monsoon moisture, fire restrictions have been lifted for State of Utah, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Park Service and U.S. Forest Services lands within Carbon, Emery, San Juan and Grand counties.
“Fire managers are very pleased with the positive response by the public in adhering to this year’s fire restrictions,” said Jason Kirks of the BLM. “Human caused fires and wildfire acres burned in this part of the state were fewer than previous years.”
On June 27 high fire danger prompted fire restrictions for Southeast Utah that included open fires, except those built within facilities provided within improved campgrounds, picnic areas or residential structures; smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building; as well as metal cutting, welding or grinding activities in areas of dry vegetation. There were also limitations on any kind of fireworks, ammunition and exploding targets.
While the fire restrictions have been lifted, Kirks wanted to remind the public that it is still fire season and cautions should be taken.
“Please carry a shovel, water and a bucket whenever a campfire is used,” Kirks said. “Always drown and stir fires to ensure they are dead before leaving camp.”
There are still fire restrictions in other parts of the state on campfires, fireworks and using steel-core/ jacketed ammunition. The Pack Creek Picnic Area at the foothills of the La Sal Mountains is still closed to all fire. There is also still a prohibition against any kind of fireworks, explosives, chemical devices, pyrotechnics and exploding targets on any BLM land within the State of Utah.
