Fire restrictions lifted for Yellowstone National Park
Welcome rains help crews contain Blacktail Fire
by Yellowstone National Park
July 17, 2012
Recent rainfall received over most of Yellowstone National Park has increased fuel moistures to the point that the prohibition on open campfires has been lifted.
The increased precipitation also helped wildland firefighting crews suppress the Blacktail Fire near the park’s northern boundary. The fire, which began July 12 and reached 29 acres, is approximately 95 percent contained, with full containment expected by next week. The 8 smoke jumpers and 5 helitack crew members who initially attacked the fire have been replaced by a 4-person wildland fire crew assigned to the park from Saguaro National Park to assist with mop-up and patrol efforts.
The lifting of the fire restrictions does not remove the responsibility for visitors to ensure that all campfires are fully extinguished, never left unattended, and are only in areas designated for their use. Visitors are reminded to be cautious when smoking in any area where there are combustible fuels.
As always, anyone negligently or willfully starting a wildland fire can be held responsible for the cost of the fire and charged with a crime.
To report any wildland fire observed in Yellowstone National Park, please call 911.
Temporary restrictions are designed to protect people, property, and the area’s natural resources. They can change with little or no notice and may be elevated, relaxed or rescinded at any time due to changes in weather and fire danger.
|
