August 21, 2026 3:40 a.m. 

Fire restrictions remain in effect on all Bureau of Land Management public lands in Oregon and Washington as the region continues through a record setting wildfire season. More than 2.5 million acres have already burned across the Northwest. BLM officials are calling on all public land visitors to exercise extreme caution, follow fire restrictions and closures, and help prevent additional wildfires.

BLM Prineville District Manager Kyle Hensley said, “As National Shooting Sports Month draws to a close and we make our way into hunting season, we especially want to thank hunters for being responsible stewards of public lands.” Hensley said, “Hunting season and wildfire season overlap in the Pacific Northwest, and we can all work together to keep each other, and our shared public lands, safe.”

The BLM release said specific fire restrictions vary by location based on fire danger, weather conditions, and fuel moisture. These restrictions address what types of ammunition can be used, whether campfires are allowed, and what fire prevention equipment is required. Before visiting public lands, all recreators should check local restrictions and closures.

Over 99 percent of BLM lands nationwide are open to recreation. Land managers put restrictions and closures in place only when and where necessary to protect public safety.

The release said individuals responsible for starting wildfires may face fines of up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, and liability for the full cost of wildfire suppression.

For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, visit www.blm.gov/orwafire