SPOKANE — The state Department of Fish and Wildlife has restricted campfires and other activities on department-managed lands in eastern Washington beginning Monday.
Citing the expectation of hot, dry weather to come, Cynthia Wilkerson, manager of the Fish and Wildlife’s Lands Division, said these restrictions help to reduce the risk of fire in state wildlife areas and access areas.
“Observing fire restrictions and exercising common sense will go a long way toward preserving public recreation lands, wildlife habitat and safety for local communities and the recreating public,” Wilkerson said.
A temporary restriction on firearm use also started Monday on Fish and Wildlife-managed lands.
Target shooting and other gun use will be prohibited, but discharge of a firearm for legal hunting still will be permitted.
Fireworks are prohibited year-round at all 33 Fish and Wildlife wildlife sites and 600-plus water access sites around the state.
Throwing a lit cigarette or any other burning material from a motor vehicle on a state highway is also prohibited year-round.