Fire Restrictions Eased

BLM Bishop Field Office advises the public to remain cautious despite favorable conditions

Due to cooler fall weather patterns and reduced fire danger, the Bureau of Land Management’s Bishop Field Office is easing seasonal fire restrictions on all Blm-managed public lands, which extend from the southern Owens Valley in Inyo County, north to Topaz Lake and the Nevada border in Mono County. This order is effective as of Tuesday, October 10.

The California statewide Fire Prevention Order remains in effect year-round.

The eased fire restrictions affect popular Blmmanaged recreational areas in the region, including the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area, Inyo Mountains Wilderness, Volcanic Tableland, Long Valley, Adobe Valley, Mono Basin, Bodie Hills, Bridgeport Valley and Slinkard Valley.

“Public land visitors can again use campfires outside of developed campgrounds and posted recreation sites,” BLM Bishop Field Manager Sherri Lisius said. “However, we want to remain vigilant, and all do our part to prevent wildfires. Target shooting is generally allowed in these areas if it is done safely and without littering or damaging natural resources or infrastructure,” Lisius said.

Visitors are encouraged to check weather conditions for Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches to avoid campfires and target shooting in hot, dry and windy conditions. Recreational target shooters are required to pack out all spent shells, brass and targets. More information on safe recreational target shooting is available on the BLM website.

BLM is reminding the public to remain cautious and practice good fire safety to help prevent wildland fires when recreating on public lands. Individuals who spark wildfires, intentionally or unintentionally, can be held responsible for fire suppression and repair costs. Here are some good fire-prevention safety tips from the BLM:

• Keep vehicles off dry grass or brush.

• Carry a fire extinguisher, shovel, and water to put out fires in case of emergency.

• Get a permit for any campfire or portable gas stove. California campfire permits are required and are available online.

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE:

For more information about fire restrictions on Blm-managed public lands, call the Bureau of Land Management’s Bishop Field Office at 760-872-5000, or email Blm_ca_web_bi@blm.gov.

BLM Website: https://www.blm.gov

BLM Restrictions and Fire Prevention Orders: www. blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-andaviation/regional-info/california/fire-restrictions Fire Safety and Prevention Tips: https://www.readyforwildfire.org/prevent-wildfire/

California Campfire Permits: https://www.readyforwildfire.org/permits/campfire-permit/