NO campfires in Sequoia National Forest

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Date: June 25, 2013 Contact: Brent Skaggs, Fire Management Officer
For Immediate Release Phone: (559) 784-1500

Extreme fire danger means no campfires in the Sequoia National Forest

Porterville, CA…The Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument (Sequoia) will increase the level of fire restrictions starting June 26, 2013. A very dry winter led to high fire danger much earlier than in previous years. Continued high temperatures and low moisture have prompted fire officials to increase fire restrictions. Sequoia fire officials will keep these restrictions in effect until further notice.

Beginning June 26, no campfires will be allowed anywhere on the forest. Stoves and lanterns with shut-off valves that use gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel will be allowed only in authorized campsites if the operator possesses a valid California Campfire Permit. A list of these authorized locations is available online at www.fs.usda.gov/sequoia. The list includes most campsites, the Jennie Lakes Wilderness, the Golden Trout Wilderness, and the Dome Land Wilderness. Campfire permits and a list of areas allowing stoves on the Sequoia National Forest may also be obtained at Forest Service visitor information desks. When using a stove, remember to clear all flammable material five feet in all directions from the stove, have a shovel available, and ensure that a responsible person attends the stove at all times when in use.

Operating an internal combustion engine outside properly designated roads or trails, welding, and using explosives will all be strictly prohibited during these increased restrictions. If riding a motorized vehicle on trails, ensure your engine is tuned, operating properly, and has an approved spark arrester. Smoking will only be allowed in enclosed vehicles and within authorized recreation sites.

Brent Skaggs, Forest Fire Management Officer, stated, “Forest fuel moisture is at a level we usually don’t see until much later in the summer, and it will take everyone’s diligence to prevent wildfires.”

These restrictions will remain in place until the end of the fire season, normally in late autumn. Anyone causing a wildfire could be liable for all costs associated with suppressing the fire. Visitors to Forest Service and adjacent BLM and Park Service lands need to carefully follow each agency’s current fire restrictions. If you spot a fire, call 911.

Cody Norris
Public Affairs Officer
Kern River Ranger District
Sequoia National Forest
760-376-3781 ext. 635