Umatilla National Forest eases restrictions

PENDLETON – The Umatilla National Forest has reduced public use restrictions to Phase A, which are the first level of restrictions that are generally implemented when fire danger is medium to high.

Restrictions under Phase A include:

• Chainsaws may be operated only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 1 p.m. local time. A one-hour fire watch is required after saw operations cease. Saw operators are required to have an axe (minimum 2 lb. head, 26” length), shovel (8” wide, 26” length), and fire extinguisher (minimum ABC 8 oz.) in their possession. **Chainsaw operation associated with commercial and personal use firewood permits are regulated under the conditions of the permit and are not impacted by this public use restriction.
• Smoking is allowed only in enclosed vehicles, buildings or cleared areas.
• No off-road/off-trail vehicle travel or travel on roads not cleared of standing grass or other flammable material; no vehicle travel on those Forest Service roads where access has been impeded or blocked by earthen berm, logs, boulders, barrier, barricade or gate, or as otherwise identified in the Fire Order.

Forest officials are also encouraging people to practice safe campfire principles. For example, campfires should be in a fire pit surrounded by dirt, rock, or commercial rings in areas that are not conducive to rapid fire spread. Flammable items should be cleared to form a three-foot circle around the pit. People should also make sure there are no low-hanging branches above the pit. Campfires must be attended at all times and completely extinguished upon leaving.

People with questions about the public use restrictions can call the Umatilla National Forest Information Hotline at 877-958-9663.

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Elkhorn Media Group

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