High Sierra Topix

Inyo National Forest fire management staff is lifting Stage I fire restrictions starting this Friday, September 29. This includes land within Inyo National Forest only.

“Due to above average fuel moistures for this time of year, low fire activity, favorable weather conditions now and in the foreseeable future as well as increased availability of suppression resources, we will be lifting seasonal fire restrictions,” said Larry Pingel, Fire Management Officer for Inyo National Forest.

“While these conditions are no longer cause for higher fire danger, we still urge everyone to minimize wildfire potential when recreating on the forest. Recently, as the night temperatures begin to drop, we have encountered an uptick in our firefighters responding to unattended campfires on the forest that could have turned into wildfires.”

Always remember:
• Campfires must be supervised and controlled at all times. Only leave when fully extinguished.
• Campfires must have at least ten feet of flammable material cleared around it.
• To reduce impacts to the landscape, if available, use of existing “rock rings” are preferred rather than creating new ones.
• Certain activities are prohibited year-round. For example, possessing, discharging, or using fireworks or pyrotechnic devices are prohibited.
•A valid California Campfire Permit is still required: www.readyforwildfire.org/permits/campfire-permit/