The Plumas National Forest is dropping from Stage II to Stage I Fire Restrictions on Thursday, September 25, due to somewhat reduced fire danger.
Recent thunderstorms have been wet and the long-term forecast includes cooler temperatures and chances for rain. While daytime temperatures are remaining warm to hot, humidity recovery is improving overnight, helping reduce the risk of fire.
In Stage I Fire Restrictions, campfires are only allowed in specific designated recreation sites in established campfire rings. Sites are listed in Exhibit A of the closure order.
Smoking is only allowed within an enclosed vehicle or building, in one of the designated recreation sites listed in Exhibit A, or an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is completely clear of all flammable material.
Additionally, internal combustion engines, such as vehicles and generators, may only be used on designated roads and trails. Boat engines are exempt.
Chainsaw use for firewood cutting is still permitted, but woodcutters need to ensure that they are checking the Woodcutting Status each day prior to cutting by calling 1-800-847-7766.
Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited.
Possession of a valid California Campfire Permit is not an exemption from the prohibitions. However, California Campfire Permit holders can use portable campfire pits, stoves or lanterns that use gas, kerosene, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel as long as it has a working shut-off valve and is used in an area that is at least 3 feet from any flammable materials.
California Campfire permits are free and available at Forest Service and CAL FIRE offices or online at https://permit.preventwildfiresca.org/.
“We are starting to see more fall-like weather and conditions on the forest and we are meeting the indices to start lowering fire restrictions,” said Plumas National Forest Fire Management Officer Martin Senter. “While we aren’t in a place yet to fully lift fire restrictions, the shift in weather over the past couple weeks is helping.”
With hunting season starting this weekend and more people in the Forest cutting firewood or enjoying the fall weather, area residents and visitors are asked to continue being careful with anything that can spark a wildfire.
