The Cibola National Forest & National Grasslands has announced a reduction in fire restrictions for the Kiowa and Rita-Blanca National Grasslands, moving from Stage II to Stage I. This change takes effect at 8 a.m. on Friday, June 5.

Reasons for the Change

Forest officials based their decision on several factors, including current fire danger levels, recent fire activity, weather forecasts, fuel moisture conditions, and the availability of firefighting resources. The preparedness levels at local, regional, and national scales were also considered.

What Stage I Restrictions Mean

Under Stage I restrictions, campfires, charcoal grills, coal grills, and wood stoves are allowed only in developed campgrounds and picnic areas that are equipped with agency-provided fire rings or grills. Campfires remain prohibited at campsites without these facilities. Propane-fueled stoves, lanterns, and heaters can be used in cleared areas free of flammable materials within three feet of the device, provided they comply with manufacturer safety requirements.

Smoking is restricted to enclosed vehicles, buildings, and developed recreation sites. Chainsaw use is still permitted, but officials emphasize that unattended campfires are illegal year-round and must be completely extinguished and cold to the touch before being left. Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices remain prohibited on all national forest lands.

Duration of Restrictions

The Stage I order for the Kiowa and Rita-Blanca National Grasslands will remain in effect through August 31 unless rescinded earlier. Similar restrictions are also in place for the Mt. Taylor, Magdalena, Mountainair, and Sandia ranger districts.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.