For the week of August 29 - September 4, 2001

Restrictions on fires ordered for forests

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By GREG STAHL
Express Staff Writer

Tinder dry conditions and periods of hot weather this summer have finally led Southern Idaho public lands managers to implement outdoor fire restriction. They will commence Friday morning, in time to help prevent fires over the busy Labor Day weekend.

The Payette, Boise and northern Sawtooth national forests, as well as state lands in southwest Idaho, are included in the Stage I restrictions. However, Bureau of Land Management officials in the region have not implemented fire restrictions.

"These restrictions prohibit the use of campfires, barbecues, wood-burning stoves or ‘sheepherder stoves,’ except in developed campsites or other recreation sites as listed on national forest maps, state maps or agency Web pages," said Sawtooth National Forest Fire and Aviation Management Officer Randy Richter.

The restrictions also limit smoking to developed recreation sites, inside vehicles or buildings, or in an area three feet in diameter cleared of flammable materials.

Camp stoves are exempt from the fire restrictions.

Last summer, Stage I and Stage II restrictions were implemented much earlier in the fire season. Richter said that, though fuel and weather conditions were similar to this year, less human-caused fires have occurred.

But Richter said the public lands management agencies are concerned with the continued, very high fire danger.

"This coupled with the anticipated increased use over the Labor Day holiday and fall season outdoor activities, the agencies involved felt it was time to implement the Stage I restrictions," he said. "These restrictions will remain in effect until further notice."

Violation of the prohibited acts is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 and/or imprisonment for not more than six months. Persons determined responsible for starting wildfires can be held liable for suppression costs as well as property damage, and may face criminal charges.

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