DNR NOTICE: Statewide burn ban in effect

OLYMPIA – Current wildfires have closed few outdoor recreation areas throughout the state.  As folks take advantage of late season recreational opportunities, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds everyone of a statewide burn ban.

Burn ban to reduce human-caused wildfires

In an effort to reduce human-caused wildfires, DNR issued a statewide burn ban on all DNR-protected lands, effective July 1, through September 30, 2012. The ban includes all forestlands in Washington except for federal lands, which have their own published restrictions. Campgrounds may have additional burn restrictions in place. Campers should check with their campground host before starting a campfire.

Fire safety information

·        Campfires are only authorized in approved camp grounds with approved fire rings. Never leave a campfire unattended, and be sure it is completely dead out and cold to the touch before leaving the camp site.

·        Be sure recreational vehicles have operating spark arresters.

·        Be aware that common recreational activities can cause fires, such as target shooting, cigarette butts, and trailer chains dragging on concrete. 

·        Do not park any vehicles in dry, grassy areas, as the heat from exhaust systems can ignite the dry grass.

·        It is illegal to discharge fireworks on DNR-protected and public lands.

For tips on protecting your home and family before a wildfire, visit www.firewise.org

Check for fire danger levels by county http://fortress.wa.gov/dnr/

firedanger/BurnRisk.aspx

Stay connected during wildfire season

·        DNR’s Fire Twitter: http://twitter.com/waDNR_fire

·        DNR Fire Update: www.dnr.wa.gov/Publications/

rp_fire_

currentfireinfodailyupdates.

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·        Incident Information System (InciWeb): www.inciweb.org/state/49

RAYONIER  CLOSES LANDS NOTICE

Dry weather conditions resulting in extreme forest fire danger have caused Rayonier to close their Western Washington lands to all general public access effective immediately.  Rayonier owns 390,000 acres of timberlands in Grays Harbor, Pacific, Wahkiakum, Jefferson, Lewis and Clallam Counties.

“We regret this closure during hunting season, but it is necessary to protect forest lands and the long term economic and environmental benefits dependent on them,” said Eduardo Hernandez, Rayonier’s Pacific Resource Unit Leader.  “We hope the public will recognize the seriousness of the situation and comply with the restrictions.”

Rayonier lands will remain closed to general public entry until a substantial amount of rainfall occurs and an announcement is made that the lands have reopened.