Rain Prompts Rangers To Rescind Burning, Shooting Restrictions

IDYLLWILD, CA — Thanks to the wintry weather, restrictions on campfires and target shooting in the San Bernardino National Forest are being scaled back, starting Wednesday, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

"Recent and incoming winter weather has prompted (us) to reduce fire restrictions," USFS spokesman Zach Behrens said.

He said campfires can again be lit at campgrounds anywhere within the 676,666-acre San Bernardino National Forest, a third of which stretches across Riverside County.

Behrens cautioned that campfires must be inside designated rings at sites, many of which are closed for the winter season.

"Campfires outside official fire rings are not allowed," he said.

Recreational shooting may also resume at firing ranges in the San Jacinto Ranger District and Big Bear.

"(Shooters) must use the correct types of firearms, ammunition and targets, and pick up all targets, casings and any other trash before leaving," Behrens said.

He advised visitors to consult the Forest Service's "Target Shooting Guide" before engaging in recreational shooting. It is available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/Intern... .

Restrictions still in place include:

• no smoking, except in vehicles and recreation sites cleared of vegetation
• no fireworks anywhere, at any time
• no welding or use of acetylene torch where an open flame might come into contact with vegetation

Violators could face fines ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 per offense, as well as prison time, depending on the nature and severity of the violation, according to rangers.

— By City News Service / Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone