Annual campfire restrictions go into effect June 1 on certain BLM-administered lands in central Oregon. Campfires will be prohibited along portions of the Crooked, Deschutes, John Day, and White Rivers, as well as along Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus.
“Our number one goal is protecting public and employee safety,” said James Osborne, Fire Management Officer for the BLM Prineville District. “We are excited that people are getting out and enjoying the rivers. Reducing the risk of human-caused wildfire helps us be good neighbors.”
The closures prohibit campfires, charcoal fires, or any other type of open flame. This includes a ban on the use of portable propane campfires and wood pellet burning devices. Commercially manufactured lanterns and metal camp stoves used for cooking are allowed when fueled with bottled propane or liquid fuel and operated in a responsible manner. Under the restrictions, smoking is not allowed except inside vehicles or on the water.
“The river canyons present a combination of limited access, grassy fuels that dry out quickly, and steep slopes that allow wildfires to spread rapidly,” Osborne continued.
Restrictions will remain in effect until October 15. A violation of this closure is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than 12 months.
For details on campfire closures and specific locations on BLM lands call the Prineville BLM District Office at (541) 416-6700. People can also or visit https://www.blm.gov/orwafire or https://centraloregonfire.org/ for more information about these closures and other fire restrictions throughout Oregon.
