Campfires banned across Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest starting July 17

WENATCHEE —  With continuing hot, dry weather, and worsening fire danger conditions, the U.S. Forest Service is expanding campfire restriction across the entire Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions go into effect on July 17, banning campfires across the forest, including developed campgrounds and designated Wilderness areas. 

Use of wood and charcoal campfires — as well as wood burning camp stoves — is banned under the forest-wide restriction. However, people can still use pressurized or bottled liquid fuel stoves, lanterns, campfires or heating devices. Devices must have a functioning on/off switch or valve, and must  be kept three feet away from flammable material.

“Every summer we try to take a proactive approach to fire prevention, taking into consideration the public’s interest in having responsible campfires in their national forest along with what we’re seeing with forest and fuels conditions, and weather predictions,” said Fire Prevention Officer, Ben Eddings.

“With the increasingly dry conditions combined with the depleted winter snowpack on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, and a recent uptick in front country wildfires in North Central Washington, we’re implementing Stage 2 Fire Restrictions now to maximize public safety and avoid as many unwanted, human-caused wildfires as possible,” said Eddings. 

Recreational (target) shooting is also prohibited in the forest under stage 2 restrictions. However, these restrictions do not impact lawful hunting under tribal treaty rights or with a valid state-issued license during hunting season.

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions also prohibit the possession or use of fireworks or other explosives, driving a motor vehicle off National Forest roads or trails, and smoking, except within an enclosed building, vehicle, designated campground or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet diameter barren or cleared of flammable material.

Firewood cutters must also comply with Industrial Fire Precaution Level requirements.

“We cannot measure the fires we prevent, but if these restrictions protect one home, save one community, or bring one firefighter safely back to their family, it is well worth it,” Eddings said. "Critical fire weather conditions are forecast through next week, and any new starts will have potential to get large quickly in these conditions."     

Visit the Forest Service website for details on current restrictions.