All open fires now prohibited throughout Willamette National Forest

 The Willamette National Forest has implemented a total campfire restriction effective Friday, July 23, to reduce risks of human-caused wildfires as dry conditions persist.

Additionally, dry conditions may lead to new ignitions and rapid fire spread, the agency warned. The long-term forecast points to much of the same for the rest of the summer.

All open fires, including charcoal fires, are now prohibited with no exceptions for developed or hosted campgrounds. Open fire in wilderness is also prohibited. Portable cooking stoves and lanterns using liquefied or bottled fuel with an on/off switch or valve are allowed.

Generators and chainsaws are allowed but permitted only in areas devoid of vegetation such as a paved area or inside of a building.

Smoking is not allowed except within an enclosed vehicle or building. Motor vehicles must stay on National Forest System roads, except when parking in an area devoid of vegetation for 10 feet around the vehicle. The Huckleberry Flats and Santiam OHV areas remain open to motor vehicle use. Be mindful that the hot undercarriage of a vehicle can easily ignite and spread fire to nearby vegetation.

Forest visitors are asked to avoid driving on two-track roads with vegetation down the center and to park in areas clear of vegetation. Additionally, welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame is prohibited.

Doug Bates

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