CARSON CITY—Fire restrictions went into effect June 19 across much of western Nevada due to rising temperatures, dry vegetation, and a recent uptick in human-caused fires.
The restrictions apply to federal, state, and tribal lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Nevada Division of Forestry.
Officials say that an unusually continuous bed of dry grasses—fueled by winter moisture—has increased the risk for fast-moving wildfires. All agencies are asking the public to exercise extreme caution while recreating outdoors and to report any fires by calling 911.
Under Stage 1 fire restrictions, the following activities are prohibited until further notice:
• Campfires or stove fires outside of developed fee campgrounds or picnic areas, unless using portable stoves fueled by gas or pressurized liquids.
• Smoking, except in enclosed vehicles, buildings, developed recreation sites, or cleared areas three feet in diameter.
• Operating or parking vehicles on dried or cured vegetation.
• Welding or using a torch with an open flame, unless permitted.
Exemptions exist for those with special permits, those using propane stoves or barbecues on private land, and first responders performing official duties. However, those exemptions do not remove liability for any fire caused.
Agencies are also urging people to carry basic firefighting tools—such as an axe, shovel, and at least one gallon of water—when traveling or working in wildland areas. Cell phones are also recommended for reporting wildfires quickly.
Violating the restrictions can lead to fines, jail time, and financial responsibility for suppression costs, resource damage, and injuries.
Target shooters are also being reminded to take extra precautions:
Avoid shooting in hot, dry, or windy conditions.
Never use tracer or incendiary ammunition.
Only shoot in areas cleared of vegetation and avoid rocky surfaces.
Use high-quality steel targets and bring water and a shovel to contain any accidental fires.
Never shoot at trash or illegal dump sites, which can be serious fire hazards.
Areas affected include:
BLM: All public lands within the Carson City District.
USFS: Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest lands east of Highway 395, excluding designated fee recreation sites with approved fire pits.
BIA: Public lands east of Highway 395 administered by the Western Nevada Agency, including Pine Nut Allotments.
Bureau of Reclamation: Lands within the Newlands Project boundary in Churchill, Lyon, Storey, and Washoe counties, except Lahontan Recreation Area.
USFWS: Stillwater, Anaho Island, and Fallon National Wildlife Refuges—where campfires are always prohibited.
NDF: Western Nevada state parks, including Washoe Lake, Lahontan, Berlin Ichthyosaur, and others. Restrictions may tighten under Red Flag conditions.
A full map and additional information can be found at www.nevadafireinfo.org. For questions, contact the managing agency directly.