PRESCOTT, AZ (July 02, 2009) – Prescott National Forest fire officials will be rescinding the Stage 1 Fire Restrictions for the West Zone of the Prescott National Forest effective immediately. These areas include all National Forest Lands on the Chino and Bradshaw Ranger Districts, which include Crown King. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will remain in place for the East Zone of the Prescott National Forest which includes the Verde District. While recent isolated rainfall has brought much needed temporary relief to the area, overall conditions over the East Zone of the forest remain dry. As always, our number one priority with the implementation of fire restrictions is for the protection of life, property, and natural resource values.

The following fire restrictions are in effect for the East Zone of the Prescott National Forest:

• Campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are prohibited on the Verde Ranger District of the Prescott National Forest which include all lands, roads, and trails; except within developed recreation sites where grills and campfire rings are provided.
• Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three (3) feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

Campfire and smoking restrictions on the Verde Ranger District will remain in effect until forest officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire. The Red Rock Ranger District on the Coconino National Forest in conjunction with the Verde Ranger District on the Prescott National Forest will remain in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment of not more than six (6) months, or both. The public is reminded that fireworks are always prohibited on all national forest lands.

For current information on fire restrictions, closures or wildfires on the Prescott National Forest, call 928-777-5799. For further information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985.

Contact: Sean West
(928) 777-5667
(928) 925-6393