Hood River, Ore. — This Independence Day, visitors to Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area are reminded to plan ahead, make safety a #1 priority and leave fireworks at home when heading out to federal public lands.
Fireworks – All explosives and pyrotechnic devices, including fireworks and explosive targets, are prohibited on National Forests in Oregon and Washington.
Violators who bring fireworks onto national forests and grasslands can be fined up to $5,000 and sentenced with up to six months in jail (36 CFR 261.52) and may be liable for suppression costs and property damage.
“We know fireworks are a national tradition, so after you enjoy your recreation time in the Scenic Area, consider stopping by one of the Gorge communities to enjoy the local fireworks!” said Donna Mickley, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Forest Supervisor.
Recreation Risks – Before visiting public lands, check what the overall fire danger level is and what public use restrictions are in place.
If cooking outdoors, use a fuel stove with an on/off switch. Where campfires are permitted, keep coals inside a steel container or fire ring and never leave a fire unattended.
Most wildfires in the Gorge are human caused; residents and visitors are encouraged to reduce risks with these simple practices:
- Do not bring fireworks or other explosive devices, including sparklers, onto federal lands.
- Attend to permitted campfires, with water and a shovel nearby. Any time you leave the area, put out the campfire to the point it is cool to the touch.
- When driving, stay on paved or designated dirt roads. Avoid driving and parking in tall grass. Exhaust particles, hot exhaust pipes and hot catalytic converters can start fires.
- Sparks from dragging chains, exhaust from ATV’s and motorcycles can start fires. Spark arresters are required on all recreational and portable gasoline-powered equipment.
A few final tips – Remember that fires can start anywhere, at any time. Make sure you have the 10 Outdoor Essentials on hand and have a plan for what to do if disaster strikes.
Thank you for helping keep our forests free from wildfires!
Other Reminders: Timed use permits are required for the waterfall corridor on the Historic Columbia River Highway (between I-84 Exits 28-35 and the I-84 Exit 31 parking lot daily between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Go to Recreation.gov to make your reservation.
Visit ReadySetGorge.com for information about recreation activities throughout the Columbia River Gorge.
Find Recreation Conditions Report, Alerts and Notices, and information on Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area recreation sites at www.fs.usda.gov/crgnsa.
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