Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
Abandoned campfire starts fire near Meadowlark
GREYBULL — The Bighorn National Forest is evaluating whether or not to implement fire restrictions for the Forest.
The current fire danger indeces are very high to extreme, however the weather is predicted to be more moderate this week.
According to Forest Supervisor Andrew Johnson, “a main factor to consider in implementing fire restrictions is the public’s compliance with extinguishing their campfires.” The Forest has had two incidents of abandoned campfires starting wildfires this season, one as recent as last Friday night near Meadowlark Lake.
The Forest is requesting recreationists to fully extinguish campfires with water until cold to the touch, and to never leave active campfires without someone attending it. Should additional incidents of abandoned campfires occur, or no significant rainfall occur the Forest will need to implement restrictions that preclude campfire use outside of designated campgrounds.
The Forest Service reminds users to be extremely cautious with campfires or any other fire ignition sources. Before leaving your campsite, check and recheck your campfire to be sure it is totally out.
Report any forest fire immediately by calling the Cody dispatch center at 800-295-9954 or 307-578-5740, or your local emergency dispatch at #911.