August 15, 2025 3:40 a.m.

With predicted decreases in temperatures, increases in relative humidity, and greater overnight moisture recovery, the Douglas Forest Protective Association has lowered the Public Use Restriction levels to High, effective Friday.

This is for all private, county, state and Bureau of Indian Affairs lands within the Douglas District.

DFPA Public Information Officer Rachel Pope said for the public this means that non-industrial use of power saws, metal cutting, grinding, or welding, and cutting, trimming or mowing of dried, cured grass, as well as the use of power-driven machinery for non-industrial improvement or development on private property, is now only permitted before 10:00 a.m. or after 8:00 p.m.

Pope said residents should remember that fire season is still underway and that fire danger remains. The expected rain throughout the weekend will not reduce the fire risk or end fire season.

Complete information on fire season restrictions is available at www.dfpa.net