News Release

US Forest Service
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit 
35 College Drive
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Public Affairs (530) 543-2627
Fax: (530) 543-2743

Date: October 6, 2008
Contact: Public Affairs, Cheva Heck (530) 543-2608 or Rex Norman (530) 543-2627

Forest Service to Lift Fire Restrictions This Week

South Lake Tahoe, CA. --The Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will be lifting fire restrictions for Forest Service lands on Friday, October 10. Additionally, Fire Management Officer Kit Bailey, in conjunction with local fire chiefs, will open residential burning on October 8.

Although the additional fire restrictions imposed early this past summer are being lifted, the Tahoe Basin adopted a set of fire regulations in 2004 that restricts where campfires may be made. Most of the Tahoe Basin backcountry is essentially "stove only" and a valid campfire permit is required. This same regulation applies within the Desolation Wilderness, where "stove only" use has been in place for more than ten years.

Developed campgrounds usually allow for campfires year-round in the facilities provided. Campfires have been prohibited this year at designated dispersed camping areas like Luther Pass, Watson Lake and Blackwood Canyon due to fire danger. Restrictions have also been in place for developed beach areas. Those restrictions are expected to be lifted by week's end.

To obtain more information about backcountry fire regulations as well as obtaining campfire permits, call the Forest Supervisor's Office in South Lake Tahoe at (530) 543-2694.

To learn more about camping and fire regulations on-line, visit: www.fs.fed.us/r5/ltbmu/regulations/rules.shtml.

To learn more about residential burning, local restrictions or needed permits, contact your local fire department or fire protection district.

Despite the lifting of restrictions, residents and visitors are urged to use great caution with all potential ignitions sources.

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