Reclamation Temporarily Bans Open Burning Campfires and Charcoal Barbecues at New Melones Reservoir

SONORA, Calif. - The Bureau of Reclamation today announces a temporary ban on the use of charcoal and other ash-producing fuels in New Melones recreation areas starting Friday, July 17 until further notice.

This ban improves public safety during fire season in California. Cooking fires using charcoal briquettes and wood campfires create embers that can easily be blown into dry vegetation, igniting wildfires. Reclamation requires visitors use propane-fueled stoves at New Melones Reservoir.

Park Rangers will post signs that will inform visitors of the temporary ban upon entrance to recreation areas.

Call the New Melones Administration Office for questions at 209-459-7290, email [email protected], or visit the New Melones website at https://www.usbr.gov/mp/ccao/newmelones/.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits.