BLM follows county in lifting burn ban

Following in the steps of Crook County, the Bureau of Land Management has now lifted the fire restrictions that were previously in place for BLM-administered public lands in Crook, Niobrara and Weston counties.

In a statement from the Newcastle Field Office, the BLM said that it will “join county partners in rescinding restrictions following recent and expected precipitation that has reduced fire danger in northeastern Wyoming”.

However, even at this time of reduced risk, the BLM warns that it is still important to be aware of the conditions of the area you are visiting.

“Help prevent wildfires by ensuring your campfires are completely out, never park your vehicle in dead grass and avoid driving through tall grass,” states the press release.

“If towing a trailer, ensure safety chains are properly installed and not dragging.

Year-round restrictions remain in place for BLM-managed lands in Wyoming for:

Discharge or use of any fireworks.

• Discharge of a firearm using incendiary or tracer ammunition.

• Burn, ignite or cause to burn any tire, wire, magnesium, or any other hazardous or explosive material.

• Operate any off-road vehicle on public lands unless the vehicle is equipped with a properly installed spark arrester pursuant to 43 CFR 8343.1 (c).

• Use/discharge of explosives of any kind, incendiary devices, pyrotechnic devices, or exploding targets.

The county’s burn ban was temporarily lifted last week and will remain so until at least May 31. Fire Warden Charlie Harrison intends to review the situation at that time based on weather conditions and fire risk assessments.

The county continues to ask that residents notify the Crook County Sheriff’s Office at 283-1225 prior to any burning.