September 10, 2019 3:45 a.m.
The Umpqua National Forest has dropped to Industrial Fire Precaution Level 1 with a low fire danger rating.
Mark Turney of the Forest Service said Public Use Restrictions have been removed. Turney said there are no restrictions under an IFPL 1, however industrial operators must still have fire tools and a water supply at each operation site. A fire-watch is also required at the end of the operation period.
Turney said Public Use Restrictions are measures put in place to reduce the risk of wildfire starting when fire danger is elevated. He said the restrictions are always carefully considered before being implemented as the goal is to improve the safety of public lands and resources while understanding the needs of the many recreational users.
Turney said despite the lowering of the IFPL and the removing of Public Use Restrictions, the public is encouraged to always completely extinguish campfires so that the embers are cool or cold to the touch.
For additional information on public and industrial restrictions, call the Umpqua National Forest at 957-3200 or go to www.fs.fed.us/r6/umpqua.