The Siuslaw National Forest is implementing public-use restrictions beginning Monday due to unseasonable hot and dry weather, prohibiting campfires and other open fires outside of designated recreation sites and campgrounds.
The restrictions cover campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires and any other open fires on forest lands outside of developed campgrounds and recreation sites. A forest order will remain in place until rescinded.
The Siuslaw National Forest spans much of the Coast Range west of Philomath and Corvallis, making it a popular destination for Benton County residents seeking camping, hiking and recreation along the coast and in the hills.
Despite the new restrictions, the fire danger level across the forest remains at moderate.
Exemptions apply to sand camping campfires in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and Sand Lake Recreation Area. Portable cooking stoves and lanterns using liquefied or bottled fuel are permitted under the order because they can be immediately shut off.
- Smoking is prohibited except inside an enclosed vehicle, building or developed recreation site.
- Generators may only be operated in areas devoid of vegetation, such as paved surfaces or developed campsites.
- Motorized vehicles are limited to designated trails and roads, with off-road and off-trail driving allowed only within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area or Sand Lake Recreation Area as designated by the Siuslaw National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map.
Forest officials are urging visitors to “Know Before You Go” and check local conditions before heading out. Fire restrictions can change quickly.
Anyone who spots a wildfire should call 911. Additional fire information is available at the Siuslaw National Forest website.