As the weather continues to warm and fire danger increases, the Medford District of the Bureau of Land Management has increased public use restrictions on the lands it manages in Southern Oregon.
Effectively immediately, certain activities on BLM lands in Jackson and Josephine counties will be restricted to prevent human-caused fires and to reduce wildfire potential.
Campfires are only allowed at the Hyatt Lake Campground and the lower section of the Rogue River below the high-water mark. In all other areas, visitors can use portable cooking stoves that use liquefied or bottled fuels. Otherwise, campfires or any other type of open fire -- including the use of charcoal briquettes -- is banned.
Operating a motor vehicle and parking off-road -- including motorcycles and ATVs -- is only allowed on roadways clear of flammable vegetation. Smoking is only allowed while inside a vehicle or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is clear of flammable vegetation. Using fireworks, exploding targets or tracer ammunition is prohibited.
Using a chainsaw or other equipment with internal combustion engines for felling, bucking, skidding, wood-cutting or any other operations is prohibited between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.. A firewatch of one hour is required following the use of a saw. Welding or operating a torch with an open flame is prohibited between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m..
Visitors to BLM-managed public lands are also required to carry tools with them to ensure small fires can be put out quickly.
Violation of these restrictions can result in a fine of up to $100,000 and/or a prison sentence of up to one year. Restitution for total fire suppression and damage costs incurred will be borne by the responsible party.
