More Montana Counties Under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions

As of Saturday, July 20, Mineral County has enacted Stage II fire restrictions, mirroring similar measures in Missoula and Ravalli counties, due to escalating fire dangers. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) has aligned its policies with local directives, imposing stringent fire restrictions across its managed properties within each affected county.

These restrictions affect all fishing access sites (FAS), state parks, and wildlife management areas (WMAs) under FWP's purview in Mineral County. This includes popular recreational spots like Fish Creek WMA and state park, along with specific FAS locations: Cyr Bridge, Upper/Middle/Lower Osprey, Tarkio and Tarkio East, Ralph’s Takeout, Big Pine, Forks, Quartz, Forest Grove, Big Eddy, Dry Creek, Sloway, St Regis, Natural Pier, and St. Johns.

Stage II fire restrictions build upon previously enacted Stage I regulations, prohibiting the use of fires or campfires at FWP sites. Smoking is restricted to enclosed vehicles or buildings, developed recreation sites, or areas cleared of flammable materials measuring at least 3 feet in diameter. However, cooking on liquid petroleum gas or propane stoves that can be controlled is permitted.

Additional Stage II restrictions include a ban on operating lawn mowers, weed trimmers, chainsaws, and other internal combustion engines from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m. Welding or using acetylene or other torch devices with an open flame during this period is also prohibited, as is the use of explosives. Motor vehicles must stay on designated roads and trails, with exceptions for official business related to governmental agencies or public utilities.

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The measures are essential to mitigate the heightened risk of wildfires during this critical period, according to the FWP press release.

Given the dry conditions and elevated fire danger, we urge caution among all those engaging in outdoor activities.

The Stage II fire restrictions at FWP sites will remain in effect indefinitely. For the latest updates on wildfire prevention and current fire conditions in Montana, residents and visitors are encouraged to visit www.mtfireinfo.org.