BLM reminds public of wildfire danger
BLM expects a near-aveage fire season
by Bureau of Land Management
May 25, 2007
With temperatures increasing across the state and more people spending time outdoors the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) reminds the public to be cautious while using fire outdoors.
Despite recent rain and snow fall, drought conditions have worsened over much of Wyoming compared to a year ago, however the recent moisture has somewhat improved conditions during May. Much of Wyoming remains in a severe to extreme drought, especially in southwest and east central portions of the state. BLM Wyoming Fire Management Officer John Glenn said he expects a near average fire season, however the weather in the upcoming months will play an important roll on whether that trend continues.
“Based on May precipitation we expect more of a normal fire season,” Glenn said. “That could change depending upon what June and July bring however.”
Glenn also reminds those heading outdoors for the summer months to be prepared when lighting camp fires on BLM-managed land.
“When people are recreating they need to be prepared and aware,” Glenn said. “When going out be prepared with a shovel and either a fire extinguisher or water to clear a place before lighting a camp fire and making sure it’s out before you leave.”
Currently, no special restrictions are in affect on BLM land, however year-around restrictions remain in place. Those restrictions include not using or discharging fireworks, not discharging a firearm using incendiary or tracer ammunition, not burning, igniting, or causing any tire, wire, magnesium, or any other hazardous explosive material to burn. Operating any off-road vehicle on public lands is also not allowed unless the vehicle is equipped with a properly installed spark arrester.
For the most up to date fire conditions and restrictions throughout the summer, visit the BLM’s fire conditions web page at http://www.wy.blm.gov/wy_fire_restrictions/.
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