Reclamation announces support for fire restrictions issued for Arizona

Boulder City, Nev.- Due to the escalating threat of wildfires caused by high temperatures, low humidity, and dry vegetation, the Bureau of Reclamation is taking decisive action. Effective immediately, fire restrictionswill be enforced on lands managed or maintained by Reclamation in Mohave, Coconino, Yavapai, Maricopa, Gila, Pinal, Pima, Cochise, Graham, La Paz, and Yuma Counties, Arizona. These measures align with the Bureau of Land Management's fire restrictions issued on June 6, 2024.

Key Fire Restrictions:

1. No Open Fires: Building, maintaining, attending, or using open fires, campfires, or charcoal stoves are strictly prohibited, except within designated fire pits or grills at developed recreation sites. Portable stoves using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed but should be used cautiously.
2. Welding and Acetylene Torches: Operating an acetylene torch with open flames is not permitted unless authorized by a permit.
3. Explosives and Fireworks: The use of any explosive materials, including fireworks (including Safe and Sane fireworks), is strictly forbidden.
4. Incendiary Devices: Possession and use of tracer rounds, steel-jacket ammunition, explosive targets, or any other incendiary device are prohibited.
5. Spark Arrestors: Motor vehicles and combustion engine equipment must have functional spark arrestors to prevent sparks that could ignite fires.
6. Smoking Restrictions: Smoking is only allowed inside enclosed vehicles.

Enforcement and Penalties:

Reclamation fully supports the Bureau of Land Management's Fire Prevention Orders and restrictions issued in each state. Violation of these restrictions may result in fines, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

For additional information regarding these fire restrictions, please contact Justin DeMaio, Archeologist with the Lower Colorado Basin's Environmental Compliance Group, at telephone (702) 293-8359 or via email at [email protected].

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits.