July 1, 2024 9:30 a.m. 

Effective Wednesday, the Umpqua National Forest is increasing Public Use Restrictions to Level 1 on all ranger districts across the forest.

A release said all districts in the UNF have a fire danger rating of Moderate and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level is at level 1.

With PUR’s in Level 1:

*Campfires must be in Forest Service constructed fire rings or fireplaces in designated sites. Campfires are allowed in wilderness areas or in fireplaces inside buildings with approved screens or spark arrestors

*Stoves are allowed

*Smoking is restricted to enclosed vehicles, watercraft, and areas that are clear of flammable material of at least a 3-foot diameter

*Generators are restricted to designated sites

*Motorized vehicles are restricted to forest development roads, designated parking areas, roads, trails and ATV areas identified as open to motorized travel on the Motor Vehicle Use Map.

Those in the forest should remember that fires in designated Forest Service constructed fire rings and fireplaces need to be dead out before leaving the camp site. Drown, stir and feel the campfire with the back of the hand. It should feel cold to the touch. In addition, with the Fourth of July this week, residents should remember that fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are illegal on National Forests year-round.

For more information on restrictions on the forest, go to: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/umpqua/fire