SBNF fire restrictions

[Old Fart]

Several of you have emailed me regarding fire conditions, campfires and such.

Currently (spring 2007) we’re in a Phase I condition, which means:

·Wood and Charcoal fires are ONLY permitted in designated fire rings at developed sites. (developed sites are campgrounds, picnic areas and yellow post sites).

·California Campfire permits are required for all fires at yellow post sites. (wood, charcoal and propane/gas stoves) A California Campfire Permit is available at any Ranger Station. (or you can hunt me down)

If (when) we go to Phase II (usually mid summer), wood and charcoal fires will be permitted only in designated fire rings at developed sites.

If we go to Phase III, no fires are permitted any time in the National Forest.

If we go to Phase IV, the National Forest is CLOSED to the public.

I’ll try to let the group know as soon as I hear anything about the conditions changing, it used to be on the website. When in doubt – call the local Ranger Station. (Big Bear is 909/866-3437)

[sarah]

Thanks for the update Jeff.

[swbooking]

thanks for the info... Lets hope we dont go to Phase III or IV

[Old Fart]

No problem, might make it a sticky?

[sarah]

No problem, might make it a sticky?

i'm just slightly ahead of ya today

[Old Fart]

thanks for the info... Lets hope we dont go to Phase III or IV

You and me both!

[RAT]

Thanks Jeff. Much appreciated. Any word on the one day fire training that will be required if we do go to phase IV? If my memory serves me, it's supposed to be in June, right?

Kurt

[Old Fart]

Nothing yet. Bear in mind that there are a LOT of people needing the CFP certification

[sarah]

Nothing yet. Bear in mind that there are a LOT of people needing the CFP certification

Also bear in mind that we're your favorites

[Old Fart]

UPDATE

Increased Fire Restrictions in Our National Forest, Effective October 5, no open campfires or charcoal fires will
be allowed anywhere on the San Bernardino National Forest. Forest
officials are raising the fire restriction level due to forecasted
Santa Ana winds and recent wildfire activity. At this time, the
forest remains open with the exception of a temporary area closure
surrounding the Butler #2 Fire zone. Forest officials continually
assess conditions during fire season and raise restrictions when
conditions warrant further vigilance and increased wildfire
prevention activities. Current fire restrictions, including those
implemented earlier this summer, are: no open campfires or charcoal
fires anywhere on the forest; target shooting is permitted only at
developed shooting ranges, including the Big Bear Sportsman's Club;
smoking is limited to enclosed vehicles, developed recreation sites,
and areas cleared of vegetation three feet in diameter; an approved
spark arrestor is required for any internal combustion engine
operated off state or county highways or designated forest roads--
these include chainsaws, generators, motorcycles, and off-highway
vehicles; welding or operating a torch with an open flame is not
allowed; and fireworks are never allowed. For more information on
these restrictions within the National Forest, please call 382-2600.

[Old Fart]

UPDATED UPDATE

CURRENT FIRE USE RESTRICTIONS AND GUIDELINES

Wood and Charcoal fires are permitted only in developed recreation sites (campgrounds, picnic grounds, and yellow post campsites) within agency approved fire rings.

Campfire permits are required for propane and gas stoves & lanterns used outside of developed recreation sites. (permits are available at your local Ranger Station)