EVERETT — With a sunny July weekend in the forecast, prime for outdoor activities, the U.S. Forest Service is clamping down on campfires in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest due to dry conditions.
On Friday, the agency said campfires are only allowed in metal rings at designated sites, which includes campgrounds and picnic areas. Gas and propane stoves are allowed in the backcountry, but should be used away from any vegetation.
“Extreme caution is urged with any open flame,” the forest service said.
Rainfall across the region has been sparse. Everett, for example, had less than an inch of rain during June. According to the National Weather Service, normal precipitation for the month would be nearly an inch-and-a-half.
“We are abnormally dry here in Western Washington,” Kit Moffitt, a fire management staff officer with Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, said in a release. “With the current conditions and the fire forecast, we need to do everything we can to reduce the chance of wildfires.”
The forest service reminded the public that fireworks are illegal in national forests and that campfires should be kept small.
Jordan Hansen: 425-339-3046; jordan.hansen@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @jordyhansen.
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