Fire restrictions are now in place in the Tonto National Forest, according to the forest service.
Due to drought conditions, warm temperatures and increasing fire danger, officials at the Tonto National Forest are implementing fire restrictions begining at 8:00 a.m., on April 18.
According to officials, all fire-causing activities will be prohibited across the entire forest. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or charcoal-burning device is not allowed.
Here is a list of additional activities that are prohibited:
- Smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, or a developed recreation site.
- Operating a chainsaw or any other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine is prohibited between 9 am to 8 pm.
- The discharging of firearms, air rifles or gas guns, except when engaged in a legal hunt in accordance with state, federal or tribal laws and regulations.
- The use of fireworks, explosives or a pyrotechnic device is always prohibited.
“We are going into restrictions earlier than normal due to the record dry winter and spring we’ve had this year. Fuel moisture and humidity levels have been decreasing steadily across the forest and the fire danger is high,” said Tonto National Forest Fire Staff Officer Don Nunley. “These precautionary measures are intended to protect forest resources and enhance our visitors’ quality recreation experiences.”
Fire restriction violations are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.
If you would like more information about the Tonto National Forest fire restrictions, call
(602) 225-5200, or check online at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.
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