Fire Restrictions at Mesa Verde

Date: July 6, 2011
Contact: Carol Sperling, 970-529-4628

Recent hot dry breezy weather has resulted in extremely dry grass and brush throughout the park, announced Superintendent Cliff Spencer. Because of the very high fire danger, the following fire restrictions will take effect on Saturday, July 2, 2011: No open fires are permitted throughout Mesa Verde National Park with the following exception: campfires are limited to permanent fire rings or grates within Morefield developed campground.

This restriction includes all the residences inside the park and the Chapin picnic area. Pressurized gas stoves and contained charcoal grills are permitted at Morefield Campground and Chapin picnic area. Smoking is only permitted inside enclosed vehicles. Fireworks are 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 the Superintendent’s authority under 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).

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