Stage 1 fire restrictions go into effect in the Long Pines

The lack of moisture on the Sioux Ranger District has created the need for the Custer Gallatin National Forest to implement Stage 1 Fire Restrictions in the Long Pines area in both Carter County, MT and Harding County, SD. The area continues to be in drought conditions – severe drought –where vegetation and grasses are dry. Furthermore, there is no significant moisture predicted in the weather forecast. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions go into effect immediately.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions require that Forest visitors build, maintain, attend or use campfires and charcoal fires only at developed or designated recreation sites or campgrounds in an agency provided metal fire ring. Fires fueled solely by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels may be used anywhere on National Forest System lands. Additionally, under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions smoking is allowed only within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is cleared of all flammable materials.

"The spring drought conditions have continued into the summer and the forecast does not indicate these conditions will change anytime soon," said Kurt Hansen, Sioux District Ranger.

Remember that if visiting National Forest System lands to bring a bucket, water, shovel and to always leave your campfire dead out, which means no heat to the touch. For additional information please call the Sioux Ranger District Office at 605-797-4432 or visit us online.

National forest fire restrictions can differ from local, county, and state fire restrictions, so be sure to check the location of where you are recreating or camping for specific fire restrictions.