Fire Restrictions Lifted on Maricopa Lands After Three-Month Wait

In a significant shift in policy, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has announced the lifting of all seasonal fire restrictions for public lands managed by the Phoenix District Office. This decision applies to BLM lands located in unincorporated Maricopa and northern Pinal County.

According to BLM officials, the likelihood of wildfires has dramatically decreased due to recent rainfall and an optimistic weather forecast, prompting the removal of the restrictions. This change will enable outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the natural landscapes without the concerns tied to fire regulation.

Effective Friday, recreational shooting sites including Baldy Mountain, Church Camp Road, and Saddleback Mountain will reopen to the public. However, the Box Canyon site in Hidden Valley will undergo additional maintenance and is expected to open by Labor Day weekend. Updates regarding these sites will be available on the BLM’s shooting site webpage as well as their social media channels.

While enjoying these public lands, BLM officials urge visitors to adhere to fire safety regulations. Key guidelines include:

• Utilizing metal fire rings or grills where available, ensuring wood does not exceed the size of the grill.
• Choosing fire locations away from flammable materials and ensuring the area around the fire is clear.
• Thoroughly extinguishing campfires with water and dirt before leaving.
• Keeping areas clear of grasses when using portable stoves, and preventing stoves from tipping.
• Maintaining responsible behavior with cigarettes, including proper disposal in an ashtray.
• Practicing Leave No Trace principles by packing out all waste, including cigarette butts.
• Avoiding parking over dry grass to prevent vehicle-related fires.
• Exercising caution while discharging firearms or using open flames in permitted areas.

It is important to note that fireworks and exploding targets remain prohibited on all BLM-managed lands in Arizona. Fire restrictions may vary depending on the specific county, so visitors are encouraged to check with their local BLM office for the most accurate and up-to-date information on fire regulations and safety tips.

This is a completely advertising post.