Fire Restrictions Starting Soon
Sonora, CA– Starting next week, temporary fire restrictions will go into effect in some areas of the Stanislaus National Forest.
Because of high fire danger, the restriction prohibits campfires, briquette barbeques, and smoking outside developed campgrounds in designated High Hazard Areas of the Forest. Welding and blasting are also prohibited except by special permit.
“Despite a cooler than normal summer, recent hot temperatures have caused tinder-dry conditions in the forest and provided ready fuels for possible wildfires,” said Forest Supervisor Susan Skalski. “This Forest Order serves as an extra measure to help reduce the potential for large and damaging wildfires. We are asking the public’s cooperation in helping us prevent destructive fires before they start.”
The prohibitions will go into effect starting this Thursday, August 25th. The locations include designated High Hazard Areas on the Groveland, Mi-Wok, Summit, and Calaveras Ranger Districts of the Stanislaus National Forest.
Violations of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
These temporary restrictions will remain in effect until the end of the 2011 fire season, or otherwise terminated.
Written by tina.falco@mlode.com
