For immediate release.
Clovis (June 22, 2007) - Fire restrictions will be implemented in the Sierra National Forest effective Thursday, June 28, announced Edward Cole, Forest Supervisor. "Additional restrictions are required in the Forest when conditions become extreme and the danger of wildfires increase," added Cole. Fire restrictions will be implemented for High Hazard Areas, which include areas of the National Forest from the foothills to 4,000 feet in elevation. In the High Hazard Areas the following restrictions include:
No open flame fires outside of designated campgrounds, picnic sites, and signed fire safe areas. The use of a portable stove using gas, or pressurized fuel are permitted.
No smoking permitted except in an enclosed vehicle, a designated site or fire safe area. Smoking while hiking, horseback riding, or while riding in an open vehicle is prohibited.
Operation of an internal combustion engine will not be permitted except on a road, designated trail or by special use permit. A road is a minimum of eight feet wide and can be traveled by a two-wheel vehicle. A sign or marker indicates a trail.
Restrictions on chain saw use. Chainsaw use to cut firewood will be regulated by the Fire Danger Rating System. When fire danger levels reach very high and extreme, chainsaw use will be restricted. Please make sure you contact the 24-hour fire weather information line at 559-346-1525 for information regarding daily restrictions on the use of chainsaws. The recording is revised daily at 5:00 PM.
No blasting or welding is permitted without a special use permit. Please contact your local Ranger Station for more information.
Forest Officials are also preparing for a busy July Fourth Holiday. "We want all of our visitors to have a safe and enjoyable holiday," said Ed Cole, Sierra National Forest Supervisor. "Forest visitors are also reminded that all fireworks are illegal in National Forests, even those that have been labeled Safe," added Cole.
If you are interested in viewing firework displays near the Sierra National Forest, two lake communities within the forest are planning firework events. The firework events will take place over Bass Lake on July 4th, 2007 and over Shaver Lake July 7th, 2007. This Fourth of July holiday visitors will find many recreation opportunities available throughout the forest. For more information visit our website at
www.fs.fed.us/r5/sierra, or contact our office in Prather (559) 855-5360, North Fork (559) 877-2218 or Clovis (559) 297-0706.
