Mesa Verde National Park and Yucca House National Monument imposed Stage 2 fire restrictions on Friday as wildfire risk continues to increase and fire crews battle fires across the state.
The order approved by MVNP Superintendent Kathryn Collins remains in effect until rescinded. Violations are punishable by fines of up to $5,000, imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
Current and forecast weather, fuel conditions and fire danger levels were cited in the news release from Mesa Verde National Park as the reason for heightened restrictions.
The restrictions prohibit building and using any fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove fires throughout the parks, including in campgrounds and residential areas. Outdoor smoking is banned except inside enclosed vehicles or in areas that are cleared of flammable materials and at least three feet in diameter.
Like the San Juan National Forest Stage 2 restrictions, the order also bars the use of explosives like fireworks or incendiary devices. They also warn against using equipment like chain saws, welders and weed eaters that could produce sparks. Vehicles should not be parked off the road unless the area within three feet of the vehicle is cleared of flammable materials, the release said.
Exceptions include liquid petroleum gas devices such as stoves, lanterns and heaters that can be turned on and off, with the caveat that they are UL Listed as meeting fire safety standards and are used in areas free of flammable materials within 3 feet, according to information from Mesa Verde National Park.
The order noted that an exemption does not remove liability if a fire is started by an individual or organization while utilizing a device listed in exceptions.
The restrictions cover all lands within Mesa Verde National Park and the Yucca House monument, including park residences.
For updates on conditions, visit the National Park Service website at bit.ly/4vacGWu.
bduran@the-journal.com
