Forest Service prepares for fire season
M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer
As summer temperatures continue to climb, McKenzie County residents are advised to prepare for potential fire restrictions, as the Forest Service outlined its current strategies and future plans during the July 15 Board of County Commissioners meeting.
Misty Hays, District Ranger with the U.S. Forest Service, provided updates on a range of topics, from fire management and campground amenities to staffing challenges and significant policy changes.
“I’m super thankful that it’s raining this morning,” stated Hays, acknowledging the temporary reprieve from dry conditions. However, she warned, “it definitely has been drying out over the last couple of weeks.” The Forest Service, in coordination with various county, state, and federal agencies, is proposing to modify fire restrictions. These new guidelines, expected by August, will “restrict campfires at the high level, unless it’s within an established campground and an established fire ring in the campground.” Other restrictions for “very high and extreme” danger levels will remain similar, including limitations on general activities and off-road travel.
Beyond fire preparedness, Hays shared news regarding local recreation. The new amenities at the CCC Campground are “up and running,” despite a recent lightning strike that affected the water pump. The Forest Service is moving forward with a fee proposal for the campground, seeking to increase the cost to “$25 per regular site and then $60 for the group sites.” Public comment on this proposal closes on July 23rd.
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