07-31-24 News Release: Willamette NF increases fire restrictions, prohibits all fires

Springfield, OR – July 31, 2024 – With hot, dry temperatures and the possibility of lightning in the forecast, the Willamette National Forest will increase public-use restrictions to stage 2, prohibiting all open fires. The new restrictions are in effect through Nov. 30, 2024, unless modified or rescinded sooner. The Fire Danger Level across the Forest remains “HIGH” and the Industrial Fire Protection Level (IFPL) is at II.

All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, or any other open fires are prohibited across the Forest under the new restrictions. Portable cooking stoves and lanterns using liquefied or bottled fuel are still allowed as they can be instantly switched off.

E-bikes are now allowed on roads and trails designated for motorized vehicles. Generators are permitted only in areas devoid of vegetation, such as campground pavement. Restrictions are also in effect for smoking, off-highway vehicles, and chainsaws in campgrounds. Smoking is not allowed except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or a developed recreation site. Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame is also not allowed.

The IFPL II limits the following operations to the hours between 8 p.m. and 1 p.m.: power saws except at loading sites; feller-bunchers with rotary head saws; cable yarding; blasting; and welding, cutting, or grinding of metal.

Please be aware of current restrictions and share information with others who may be unaware of the restrictions. As fire restrictions change, information will be made available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/willamette/fire.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @WillametteNF for the latest updates. https://www.fs.usda.gov/willamette/

To report a wildfire, please call 9-1-1.

 

Carla Robinson Public Affairs Staff Officer

Willamette National Forest

541-225-6305 [email protected]

3106 Pierce Parkway Springfield, OR  97477