PIERRE, (KCCR) — Dry conditions have forced the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands to enter Stage II Fire Restrictions. The Stage II Fire and Smoking Restrictions Special Order was signed Friday and runs through the end of the year, unless the order is pulled back. The restrictions include the Fort Pierre Ranger District along with Wall, Fall River, Bessey and Pine Ridge districts. It also includes the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands. Stage II restrictions prohibit the ignition of any fire source, including campfires, charcoal barbecue or grills, unless the device is solely fueled by liquid gas that can be shut off. Other restrictions include smoking, unless inside a vehicle, use of internal or external combustion engines without spark arresting devices, welding, explosives and using National Forest Service roads except when parking in areas devoid of vegetation, within 10 feet of a vehicle. The restrictions on campfires and grilling include on improved camping and picnic area. With fall hunting underway, officials remind hunters to use caution to prevent wildfire ignition.
