Park Announces Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

Date: August 8, 2014
Contact: Marsha McCabe, [phone]

Crater Lake, OR - Crater Lake National Park and the northwest geographic area have experienced extremely high levels of fire activity during July and early August.Prolonged drought conditions combined with abundant lightning has resulted in numerous large fires.These extreme conditions have resulted in an early onset of fire season and 4 to 6 additional weeks of high fire potential are anticipated for the remainder of the 2014 season.

To ensure public safety and to provide the highest degree of protection to park resources, the following restrictions were implemented effective at midnight on Wednesday, August 7, 2013:

Campfires
 - Wood fires and charcoal fires are permitted only within established grills or fire rings, or portable self-contained grills, in the following designated areas:

• Mazama Campground
• Lost Creek Campground
• Rim Village Picnic Area ("Picnic Hill")
• Park residential areas

 - Backcountry campfires are permitted only within established fire rings in the following designated campsites: Lightning Springs, Grouse Hill, Red Cone Springs, Bybee Creek, and Dutton Creek

 - Gasoline and propane camp stoves and gas grills are permitted in campgrounds, picnic areas, backcountry areas and residential areas.

Smoking
Smoking is permitted only in the following areas:

 - In vehicles, provided that an ashtray is used for ashes and butts.

 - While stopped in an area at least three (3) feet in diameter that is barren or free of all flammable materials.Ashes and butts must be disposed of safely and may not be discarded on the ground.

Fireworks
Fireworks are prohibited in the park at all times.

These restrictions are implemented pursuant to the authority described in 36 Code of Federal Regulations 1.5(a)(2), 2.13(c) and 2.21(a).While our goal is voluntary compliance, persons who fail to comply with these restrictions may be cited or arrested if necessary.We appreciate your cooperation.

-NPS-