The fire restriction prohibits campfires, briquette barbecues, and smoking outside developed campgrounds in designated Moderate Hazard Areas of the Forest. Welding and blasting also are prohibited, except by special permit. Forest Supervisor Susan Skalski noted, “Hot, dry weather and tinder-dry conditions continue to persist in Moderate Hazard Areas of the Forest. This Forest Order serves as an extra measure to help reduce the potential for large and damaging wildfires. We are asking the public's cooperation in helping us prevent destructive fires before they start.”
Beginning at 12:01 a.m. Friday, June 27, 2014, the following prohibitions are in effect by Forest Order in designated Moderate Hazard Areas on the Groveland, Mi-Wok, Summit, and Calaveras Ranger Districts of the Stanislaus National Forest:
- Campfires. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, (including briquette type barbecue), or stove fire is prohibited, except within developed recreation sites. Persons with a valid California Campfire Permit may use a portable stove or lantern that uses gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel. [36 CFR 261.50 (a)].
- Smoking. Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material [36 CFR 261.50 (d)].
- Welding. Operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited, except by permit [36 CFR 261.50 (i)].
- Use of Explosives. Using an explosive is prohibited, except by permit [36 CFR 261.50 (b)].
The restrictions on open sources of fire in the Moderate Hazard Area will be actively patrolled by Stanislaus Forest Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Prevention Specialists. Persons who knowingly violate these restrictions on open sources of fire may be cited by Forest Officers.
