Forest fire restrictions raised last week
Officials with the San Bernardino National Forest raised fire restrictions Thursday, May 26, due to the danger from current and anticipated worsening conditions, such as drying vegetation and continued hot temperatures.
Lower elevations of the forest have reached critically dry fuel moisture levels this week, causing fire officials to raise fire restrictions almost one month earlier than raised in 2021.
The restrictions prohibit the following:
• Campfires and wood/charcoal barbecues at unhosted campgrounds and picnic areas
• Discharging of a firearm
• Smoking
• Operating an internal combustion engine off paved, gravel or dirt National Forest System roads and trails
• Welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame
Some exemptions exist. Some hosted campgrounds and picnic areas will allow campfires, barbecues and smoking (see www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1026545.pdf).
Gas-powered stoves and fire rings with a fuel shut-off will be also allowed, including when dispersed camping, if used with a free California Campfire Permit, which can be obtained online at www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sbnf/home/?cid=fseprd769862. It is important for permit holders to read and follow the terms of the permit.
Another exemption addresses discharging a firearm. While target shooting at recreational sites like Forest Road 1N09 will be prohibited, it will continue to be allowed at shooting ranges under a special use permit (see first link, Exhibit B). Also, visitors with a hunting license will be able to shoot at legal game bird or mammal.
As fire restrictions and related prohibitions may increase again later this year, forest visitors are highly encouraged to always “know before you go” before each visit by checking current fire restrictions at the second link or calling a ranger station.
