As of Tuesday, July 15 at 12:01 a.m., the San Juan National Forest is under Stage 1 fire restrictions.
That means fire is prohibited unless it’s within a “permanent metal or concrete fire pit” that the Forest Service installed within a “developed recreation site,” like campgrounds and picnic areas, a Forest Service news release reads.
Violation of campfire restrictions can carry a $530 fine in Colorado.
Smoking is also restricted “except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while … in a (barren) area,” the news release said.
Previously, Stage 1 regulations applied only to lower elevations, but continued hot, dry conditions have created a “critical fire environment.”
Therefore, the Forest Service expanded the restrictions to higher elevations and wilderness areas, too, “to protect public safety and our area natural resources,” the news release said.
Restrictions will remain in place until further notice and can change with weather and fire danger.
For more information on the San Juan National Forest call (970) 247-4874 or visit the Forest Service website.
