You are now banned from lighting up that campfire
Aug 8, 2012, 11:30 AM | Updated: 2:15 pm
Campgrounds and approved fire rings have typically been exempt from campfire bans but forest managers have decided that can be too confusing. (AP Photo/File)
(AP Photo/File)
Until further notice, don’t light up a campfire.
The extremely dry, hot weather means campfires are not allowed – in campgrounds in the Cle Elum and Naches Ranger Districts in Kittitas and Yakima counties.
The only exception is for areas within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, typically at higher elevations.
The past few weeks as the temperatures have risen, grass and brush have dried out and increased the fire danger dramatically.
Campgrounds and approved fire rings have typically been exempt from campfire bans, but forest managers have decided that can be too confusing.
The conditions have been drier than normal this year and park rangers have found that fires lit in campgrounds are still burning long after the tenting residents have moved on.
“No wood or charcoal fires are going to be permitted in the district,” explained Nancy Jones with the U.S. Forest Service.
The ban remains in effect until significant rainfall or humidity returns to the area.
