July 13, 2023 4:00 a.m.

The Umpqua National Forest is increasing Public Use Restrictions to Level 1 on all ranger districts across the forest as of Friday.

All districts in the UNF have a fire danger rating of High and Industrial Fire Precaution Level is at level II.

Under the new restrictions:

*Campfires must be in forest service constructed fire rings or fireplaces in designated sites

*Gas stoves are allowed while charcoal grills, pellet grills, or any grill that would create hot embers or ash are not allowed

*Smoking is restricted to enclosed vehicles, watercraft, and areas that are clear of flammable material of at least a three-foot diameter

*Operating a combustion engine except on a motor vehicle on major roads or parking areas or on roads designated for open motorized vehicle travel is based on the Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/umpqua/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd485583

Forest users should remember that fires in designated forest service constructed fire rings and fireplaces need to be dead out before leaving a campsite. Campfires should be drowned, stirred and felt with the back of the hand. They should be cold to the touch.

Information about what these changes mean for recreational activities are linked: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/umpqua/fire