Stage II fire restrictions are imposed
MISSOULA — Stage II fire restrictions became effective July 31 on lands managed by the Bitterroot and Lolo National Forests, Montana Department of Natural Resources, and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. The restrictions are also in effect for Ravalli, Sanders, Lake, and Missoula counties.
Stage II restrictions prohibit:
? Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire.
? Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, at a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
? Operating motorized vehicles off designated roads and trails.
Additionally the following are prohibited from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m.:
? Operating any internal combustion engine
? Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame.
? Using an explosive.
? Fireworks in forested areas.
A patrol for two hours following cessation of all work described above is required.
The Stage II restrictions do not apply to the Selway-Bitterroot and Bob Marshall Complex/Scapegoat Wildernesses.
These restrictions are expected to remain in effect until there is a significant long-term change in fire danger. Fire danger on the Flathead Reservation is extreme at most reporting stations.
Tony Harwood, Fire Management Officer urges residents and visitors to exercise caution while working or recreating outdoors.
For more fire information, call Curtis Matt at 676-2550 or Germaine White at 883-2888 ext 7299, or Tami Paulsen (406) 329-1024.
Exemptions listed
Lake County Commissioners also passed a resolution adopting Level II restrictions with some exemptions:
1. Persons with a written permit that specifically authorizes the otherwise is prohibited act.
2. Persons using a device solely fueled by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off.
3. Operating motorized vehicles on designated roads and trails.
4. Emergency repairs of public utilities and railroads per attached conditions.
5. Persons conducting activities in those designated areas where the activity is specifically authorized by written posted notice.
6. Any federal, state or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
7. All land within a city boundary is exempted.
8. Other exemptions unique to each agency/tribe.
The county resolution also states propane barbecues and motorized equipment in agricultural and lawn care activities are exempted.
According to the commissioners, an exemption does not absolve an individual or organization from liability or responsibility for any fire started by the exempted activity.