Dinosaur National Monument Implements Fire Restrictions

DINOSAUR, Colo. - Dinosaur National Monument will implement Stage 1 fire restrictions beginning Friday, June 26, at 12:01 a.m.

"The extremely dry conditions along with large amounts of flammable vegetation have created a high fire danger situation," said Superintendent Phil Akers. "As recent fires in Utah and Colorado have shown, conditions are ripe for fires to break out."

To protect visitors and monument staff as well as the natural and cultural resources in Dinosaur National Monument, restrictions on open fires have been issued. Building or using any open fire or campfire, except within National Park Service-provided fire grates and grills at developed campgrounds is prohibited. Even in the campgrounds where fires will continue to be allowed, visitors should be extremely cautious when having a fire. Watch out for the wind blowing sparks into dry vegetation. Always make sure any fires - including charcoal fires - are completely out when you are done. You should be able to put your hand in the extinguished coals or charcoal.

Backcountry and river users should also know that charcoal is still permitted along the Green and Yampa rivers as long as it is contained in a fire pan with fire blanket and on sand free of any vegetation. Open campfires in the backcountry are prohibited. The use of pressurized gas or liquid fuel stoves is permitted in all areas. The use of charcoal in grills in picnic areas is still permitted also.

Smoking is permitted only in enclosed vehicles, developed recreation site, or in areas cleared of all flammable material. Fireworks are always strictly prohibited in Dinosaur National Monument and other federal lands.

These restrictions will remain in effect until such time as the fire danger in the monument becomes less severe. These restrictions are dependent upon extended fire weather and conditions and will be evaluated daily. If the fire danger increases, further restrictions on fires may be enacted.

If necessary, National Park Service Rangers will issue citations to persons violating the terms of this closure under authority of Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations 1.5(f). We ask for everyone's cooperation during this high fire danger period to decrease the potential for a catastrophic fire in Dinosaur National Monument this season.

For more information, contact the monument at (435) 781-7700. You can also find us on the web at www.nps.gov/dino, or follow us on social media at @dinosaurnps.