Fire restrictions remain in effect
Archery deer hunters asked to use caution with fire, ATVs
MADISON -- State forestry officials are cautioning hunters preparing for the archery deer season and other upcoming hunting seasons that due to the high fire danger statewide, many outdoor activities may pose an unusually high risk of causing wildfires.

As of Sept. 4, 2003, the state imposed ‘Emergency Forest Fire Regulations’ in Eau Claire, Clark and Jackson counties. Burning permits are also suspended, including the use of burn barrels, in Monroe, Chippewa, Adams, Barron, Burnett, Juneau, Marathon, Monroe, Polk, Rusk, Sawyer, Taylor, Washburn, and Wood counties.

Under ‘Emergency Forest Fire Regulations’, the following acts are prohibited until further notice:

Building, maintaining, attending, or using a campfire unless in a designated camping area.

Smoking a cigar, cigarette, or pipe, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.

Throwing matches, ashes, or burning material from a vehicle

Burning combustible material in a burn pile or burn barrel

The restrictions are expected to remain in effect until there is a significant long-term change in fire danger. Fire danger in Wisconsin has been mostly high and is drifting toward ‘very high’ in several reported counties. According to the National Weather Service, there is no relief in site.

Fire officials caution that the chance of rain for the upcoming weekend, may have no significant impact on the wildfire danger and urge residents and visitors to exercise caution while working or recreating outdoors. The biggest concern with the upcoming deer archery season (opening Sept. 13) is going to be campfires, smoking, and off-road vehicle use.

ATV and motorcycle trails have been closed in some locations, because of the potential for hot exhaust systems to start fires. Trails have been closed to motor vehicles in the Black River State Forest and on county forest lands in Eau Claire, Clark and Jackson counties.

For the most current fire danger rating information throughout Wisconsin, visit the Forest Fire Program page of the DNR Web site or contact local DNR service centers for information.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Catherine Regan - (608) 266-2359