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August 30, 2001 Full Campfire Ban on TNF Recreationists Advised not to Enter TNF Lands South of Interstate-80 Nevada City…..A campfire ban throughout the entire Tahoe National Forest has been instituted by TNF officials effective tonight, August 30, at 6:00 pm until further notice. This ban includes campfires and BarBQ's in developed campgrounds, picnic areas, and other developed recreation sites as well as any campfires in the backcountry. Camp stoves and lanterns are still an option in both developed recreation sites and in the backcountry. A campfire permit is required for the use of stoves/lanterns outside developed recreation sites. In June, fire restrictions went into effect that banned campfires outside developed recreation sites, but the fire danger has continued to escalate as the summer progressed. "We understand that this complete campfire ban will detract from the camping experience for National Forest visitors this Labor Day weekend, but the extreme fire conditions do not leave us any alternative. This ban is necessary based on dry forest conditions, continuing problems with abandoned campfires, and the fact that our fire fighting forces are stretched very thin," stated Steve Eubanks Forest Supervisor. This is the driest year since 1975 based on rainfall, moisture in the vegetation, and summer weather conditions. These campfire restrictions apply to all Tahoe National Forest System lands. Also, due to the potential danger from the Star Fire, Forest officials are recommending that the public stay out of Tahoe National Forest System lands south of Interstate 80 and west of the Pacific Crest Trail. Exceptions to this advisory would include:
"We are instituting this advisory to protect public safety from the Star Fire which is currently burning in a northeast direction along the Middle Fork American River. If the fire continues to burn in that direction into the headwaters of the North Fork American River, then there is the potential for explosive fire conditions in two major drainages of the Forest. We are very concerned for the safety of hikers, bikers, horseback riders, etc. who may venture into the Forest over Labor Day weekend with this kind of fire danger; thus the need for a Forest Advisory," explained Steve Eubanks, Forest Supervisor. This advisory does not affect private landowners, lessees, permit holders or firefighters/law enforcement officers with duties in the area. Fire conditions, however could continue to be extremely severe this weekend. "Our concern is that if the fire does become established in other drainages, the smoke filled canyons do not allow aerial search and rescue operations if someone was missing, as well as the concern for their safety around a major wildfire," continued Eubanks. The advisory is in addition to the road closures already in effect leading into the French Meadows and Hell Hole Reservoir areas. This advisory may become mandatory based on the behavior of the Star Fire in the next few days. For more information, contact any of the following Ranger Stations throughout the TNF:
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