A fire ban took effect Wednesday at Zion National Park in Utah, where officials said only stoves and grills fueled by propane, butane, or white gas were allowed to be used in the Watchman and South campgrounds.
The ban on wood and charcoal fires and the use of cigarettes and cigars in the open followed in the wake of a campground fire (top photo) last Saturday. Quick response limited the fire to about a quarter-acre, according to park staff.
“National Park Service and interagency partners’ wildland firefighters suppressed a fire that burned part of Watchman Campground on Saturday, July 29,” said Lyndsay Fonger, the park's fire management officer. “It’s important that you not smoke near dry plants or build campfires in Zion Canyon to protect people, property, and the park itself.”
Fire Restrictions
- Setting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a campfire (including charcoal) in South and Watchman campgrounds, at picnic areas, or permanently improved places of habitation is prohibited.
- Stoves and grills fueled by petroleum fuels such as Liquid Propane Gas (LPG), butane, or white gas are allowed.
- Smoking in vegetated areas is not allowed.
- No smoking except in an enclosed vehicle, or a developed recreation site clear of vegetation, or other areas devoid of vegetation with a minimum of three (3) feet in diameter of clear soil.
Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
Conditions At Zion
Wet winter and spring weather contributed to the growth of many grasses and other plants throughout Zion National Park. Now that plants are drying out, an accidental fire start makes it more likely that these plants could burn quickly, a park release said. Grasses and other dry fuels present a significant fire danger to park visitors and facilities, especially at the campgrounds in Zion Canyon.
Use Fire Sense
No matter when you visit Zion, and especially in hot, dry summer months, remember:
- Your car engine may be hot, especially after long drives. Park away from dry plants.
- Check chains on trailers to make sure they don't drag under your car.
- Using fireworks is prohibited all the time on public lands.
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