BLM bans fireworks, exploding targets in NW

As of May 15th, the federal Bureau of Land Management has prohibited the use of fireworks and exploding targets on all BLM-managed public lands throughout Oregon and Washington.

Here’s their full notice, issued Thursday, on the ban:

As we celebrate America’s wilderness areas with the 50 th anniversary of the Wilderness Act, we are reminded of how special these places are to all of us. Here in Oregon and Washington, the BLM manages over 16 million acres of public land.

Historically, May is not considered at high risk for large wildfires. However, this year’s low snowpack over much of Oregon and lower elevations in eastern Washington may boost the potential for possible wildfires during dry, windy conditions.

In recent years we’ve had longer fire seasons. This makes for a substantial change in the fire behavior we’re seeing. Fires are burning hotter and longer fueling the costs of fire suppression.

“In anticipation of the early fire potential, the ban on fireworks and exploding targets will be in effect beginning from May 15 to October 15 th .

“Summer is the time for families and friends to get outside and enjoy our public lands. Please do so carefully. Help protect our wildlife habitats, watersheds, rangelands, and forests – the lands that work for you,” said Jerry Perez, state director for BLM Oregon/Washington.

Those who ignite fireworks or exploding targets on BLM-managed lands can be fined up to $1,000, receive a prison term of up to one year, or both. In addition, individuals responsible for starting wildland fires on federal lands can be billed for the cost of fire suppression.

The Forest Service has a similar ban in place on national forest lands.

“While lightning can cause wildfires, most wildfires are caused by people. And with more of us living near forests and wooded areas that border public lands, the risk of fire to homes and communities has increased in recent years.” explained Perez.

The BLM cooperates with the Pacific Northwest Wildfire Coordinating Group to fight wildland fires in the Pacific Northwest.

The Geographic Area Coordination Center offers updates on the fire potential regionally and nationally and the NW Coordination Center provides updates in the Pacific Northwest.