Due to recent and forecasted high temperatures along with increasing fire danger, the Medford District of the Bureau of Land Management has implemented additional public use restrictions on lands it manages in Southern Oregon.
As of today, the Medford BLM District has moved to "extreme" fire danger.
Campfires are no longer allowed anywhere on the District including Hyatt Lake Campground. Visitors can use portable cooking stoves that use liquefied or bottled fuels. Propane fire pits with an on/off valve are permitted in areas free of vegetation. Otherwise, campfires or any other type of open fire -- including the use of charcoal briquettes -- are prohibited.
Smoking is only allowed while inside a vehicle or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is clear of flammable vegetation. Operating any motor vehicle and parking off-road is only allowed on roadways clear of vegetation. Using fireworks, exploding targets or tracer ammunition is prohibited. Using a chainsaw, welding or operating a torch with an open flame is prohibited.
Visitors to BLM-administered public lands are also required to carry tools with them to ensure small fires can be put out quickly including a shovel and at least one gallon of water or a 2.5-pound fire extinguisher.
Violation of these restrictions can result in a fine up to $100,000 and/or one year in prison. For updated information on fire restrictions, visit "blm.gov/orwafire."
