BLM Imposes Strict Fire Restrictions on Oregon and Washington Public Lands to Curb Rising Wildfire Risks

Fire restrictions went into effect on all Oregon and Washington Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands on May 15, as warmer, drier weather in the Pacific Northwest region is expected to heighten wildfire risks. May is also ‘Wildfire Awareness Month.’

Oregon Fire Restrictions From May 15

BLM leaders encouraged all visitors to be aware of active fire restrictions that will help reduce the risk of human-caused fires. From May 15, fire restrictions that include the following apply:

• Banned: Fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns.
• Prohibition violators can be fined up to $100,000. Jailtime of up to 12 months can also be imposed.
• Anyone starting wildland fires on federal lands could also be billed for the cost of fire suppression.

Because grasses and other fuels dry out quickly in the summer months, they are highly susceptible to catching fire that can be caused by just one spark.

BLM Oregon and Washington State Fire Management Officer Jeff Fedrizzi said, “The number of human-caused fires has only increased over the years.”

For more information:

• For seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, visit www.blm.gov/orwafire.
• For wildfire prevention tips, visit NIFC.GOV .
• About fire careers with BLM Oregon-Washington, visit the BLM Careers page.