Alturas, Calif.— Fire-use restrictions will go into effect for the Modoc National Forest at 12 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 23, 2019. Fire restrictions help minimize the chances of human-caused wildland fires. Modoc firefighters have contained three human-caused fires already this year.

Due to fire-danger and increased use this time of year at Cedar Pass Campground, the Warner Mountain Ranger District will block vehicle access to the campground while these fire restrictions are in place. Access is walk in only during these times. Fuels crews will soon begin work on addressing fuels along entrance roads and within the campground.

While lightning is the number one cause of fires on the forest, human-caused fires are a major concern. Preventable causes include escaped campfires, careless smokers, equipment use, vehicle exhaust, fireworks and playing with matches.

Forest Order No. 09-19-01, Exhibit A - Designated Recreation Sites (click for larger)

Modoc National Forest Fire-Use Restrictions include:

Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, except in the Designated Recreation Sites listed in the attached documents and the South Warner Wilderness.
Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or a building, within the Designated Recreation Sites listed in the attached list and map, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
Welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame.
Operating an internal combustion engine, except on National Forest System roads or trails, or within the Designated Recreation Sites listed in the attached documents.

Exemptions to these restrictions include:

Lanterns or portable stoves using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid with a valid free California campfire permit (www.preventwildfireca.org/Campfires/). Barbeque grills using briquettes are not allowed.
Chainsaws and other equipment within the terms of a valid permit. Fuelwood-cutting permits are available at any Modoc National Forest office. Permit holders are asked to call 530-233-8819 for operational hours before heading out for the day.

Similar restrictions are also in effect on the neighboring lands. Since restrictions can vary by ownership, visitors should contact the area they plan to visit for specific fire restrictions and conditions.

Forest Order No. 09-19-01, Exhibit B - Map of designated recreation sites for Modoc National Forest. (click for larger)

Klamath Falls News coverage of the 2019 Wildfire Season is brought to you by Ace Towing and Turn Thom Point S.