A fire crew in Big Cypress National Preserve. Wildfires are more dangerous and costly to suppress compared to conducting prescribed fires under controlled conditions.

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Date: April 10, 2009
Contact: Bob DeGross, 239-695-1107

Pedro Ramos, Superintendent of Big Cypress National Preserve, announced today that the National Park Service (NPS) will implement a fire use restriction on NPS lands within the preserve boundaries.

Effective immediately, and until further notice, the lighting or maintaining of a fire, including campfires, in the backcountry is prohibited. Campfires are restricted to developed campgrounds in established fire grates or fire rings and only while attended.

"This restriction is necessary due to the extreme high fire danger brought about by the lack of rainfall accompanied with dry, windy conditions creating red flag fire weather." Ramos stated.

The preserve is now in extreme fire danger, similar conditions exist throughout south Florida. No relief to the dry condition is anticipated until the onset of the summer rainy season, which typically begins in May.

Preserve Fire personnel will be conducting safety patrols while the restriction is in effect to observe conditions, engage the public and discuss the extreme fire weather present throughout the Preserve when the opportunity presents itself.

Those who witness unauthorized burning on NPS lands within the Preserve boundary should report it to the NPS at 800-342-5869 or #NPS on a your cellular phone.