All Open Fires Prohibited in Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alagnak Wild River, and Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve

Date: May 15, 2014
Contact: Morgan Warthin, [phone]

KING SALMON, Alaska - Effective immediately, Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alagnak Wild River, and Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve are prohibiting the use of all open fires in the park and preserves due to high fire danger. This order will be in effect until the weather and fire conditions change. The period of this ban will generally correspond to fire ban decisions put in place by the Bristol Bay Borough Fire Department but will be managed independently based on the wide geographic range and diversity of available fuels within the various Katmai area drainages.

The term “open fires” refers to any flame source not immediately extinguishable or controllable and applies to any form of wood or charcoal-based fire, even in established fire rings. Backpacking or camp stoves using fuel or compressed canisters which can be regulated and shut off are still permitted for use.

Continued hot, dry and windy weather throughout southwest Alaska has contributed to red flag warnings issued by the National Weather Service.

Wildland fire managers ask visitors and residents to follow the fire prohibitions and prevent additional fire starts. We all have a hand in a safe fire season.

For statewide wildfire information, visit fire.ak.blm.gov.

Find updated park information at www.nps.gov/katm and www.nps.gov/ania. Information can also be obtained by calling [phone] from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily.