Willamette National Forest to implement fire restrictions, including Three Sisters and Mt. Jefferson wilderness areas
Barney Lerten
SPRINGFIELD, Ore. (KTVZ) — As hot, dry temperatures continue, the Willamette National Forest will implement fire restrictions starting Friday, July 18. The Fire Danger Level across the forest remains “Moderate” and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) remains at level I.
The fire restrictions apply to all lands within the forest, including the Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Washington, Waldo Lake, and Diamond Peak Wilderness areas, according to the announcement, which continues in full below:
All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, or any other open fires will be prohibited outside of designated campgrounds under Forest Order #06-18-00-25-10. Campfires are only allowed in metal campfire rings or grills in designated recreational sites, except when the site is closed to the public.
Portable cooking stoves and lanterns using liquefied or bottled fuel are still allowed as they can be instantly switched off. Generators are permitted only in areas devoid of vegetation, such as campground pavement.
Santiam Pass and Huckleberry OHV areas remain open to motorized vehicles, and e-bikes are still allowed on motorized trails. All motorized vehicles must follow the Willamette National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Maps. Restrictions will also go into effect for smoking and chain saws in campgrounds. Smoking is not allowed except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or a developed recreation site. Additionally, welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame is also not allowed.
Please be aware of current restrictions before you head out and share current information with others who may be unaware of the restrictions. Additionally, fireworks are never allowed on national forests.
Visit our website at www.fs.usda.gov/r06/willamette/fire and follow us on Facebook and X @WillametteNF for current fire information. To report a wildfire, please call 911.