By KRWG News
Silver City – Stage I Fire and Smoking Restrictions are in effect on the Gila National Forest.
Stage I is the first level of restrictions and limits the use of open campfires to designated campgrounds only. The list of campgrounds is listed in the official order 06-287. Smoking is prohibited, except 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 flammable material.
Fire and smoking restrictions are effective in reducing the number of unwanted person-caused fires. Even during times of restrictions, however, there may still be opportunities for prescribed fires or wildfires managed for resource benefit objectives. Fire's natural role is sustained through careful planning and management. Timing is critical for prescribed fires, as a range of criteria must be met, including weather and fuel conditions, before ignitions can begin. To date, the Gila National Forest has treated about 13,000 acres with prescribed fire.