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Date: August 18, 2009
Contact: Tessy Shirakawa, 970-529-4628

Continued dry, breezy weather along with little monsoon moisture has resulted in extremely dry grass and brush throughout the park. Because of the very high fire danger, the following fire restrictions will take effect on August 19, 2009: No open fires are permitted throughout Mesa Verde National Park. This includes all the residences inside the park, Morefield Campground, and the Chapin picnic area. Pressurized gas stoves are permitted at Morefield Campground and Chapin picnic area. Fireworks are always prohibited in Mesa Verde National Park.

This restriction shall remain in effect until such time as the fire danger in the park becomes less severe. Your cooperation in decreasing the potential for a catastrophic fire within Mesa Verde National Park is appreciated.

This prohibition is based on 16 United States Code, Section 3 and 36 Code of Federal Regulations subsections 1.5 Closures and public use limits. (a)(1); 2.13 Fires. (a)(5)(c); 2.21 Smoking. (a); and 2.38 Explosives. (b)(c). SW Colorado federal agency level 1 fire restrictions are also in effect.

For further information call Allen Farnsworth, Fire Management Officer at 970-529-5049 or Jessie Farias, Chief Park Ranger at 970-529-4641.

- NPS -