Fire restrictions in Washington and Oregon’s public lands are now in effect.
The Bureau of Land Management said those who violate the fire ban might be fined up to $1,000 and potentially receive a prison term up to one year. If one’s actions lead to a wildfire on federal land, they can be billed for the cost of fire suppression.
Using fireworks, exploding or metallic targets, steel ammunition, tracer or incendiary devices and sky lanterns is prohibited. More details on the Pacific Northwest’s fire closures and restrictions can be found at www.blm.gov/orwafire.
Anita Bilbao, regional Bureau of Land Management associate state director, said in a release Tuesday that the Pacific Northwest’s wet winter doesn’t mean sparks can’t ignite in its forests this summer.
“We are seeing more invasive grass due to the wet weather, which dries out quickly without rain,” she said. “Everyone can help by following fire restrictions and practicing fire safety while out on your public lands.”
