Inyo National Forest wishes visitors a safe Independence Day
Reminder to Recreate Responsibly Independence Day weekend

BISHOP, Calif. – Celebrating July 4 festivities outdoors is a time-honored tradition throughout the United States, and the Inyo National Forest is happy to welcome so many outdoor enthusiasts this upcoming weekend. As you gather and explore please remember that fireworks and pyrotechnics are prohibited on public lands – every forest, every campsite, every day.

More than 90 percent of all wildland fires are human caused. This, coupled with drier than normal conditions, increases the odds of forest fires igniting. Across the Inyo National Forest, vegetation moisture levels have been dropping rapidly, and just this week the Southern California Geographic Area went to Preparedness Level 3.

“Recently, Inyo National Forest Fire resources have been responding to lightning fires from monsoonal storm activity. These storms brought little to no measurable precipitation across the Forest or to our neighboring lands,” said Larry Pingel, Chief of Fire and Aviation. “We ask the public’s assistance in not adding unnecessary additional ignition sources from illegal fireworks.”

To ensure a fun weekend, check the Inyo National Forest’s website for important alerts on sites and trails. Have backup destinations in mind in case an area is closed or overcrowded.
Remember, fire restrictions are in effect on the Inyo National Forest. Campfires are now only permitted in designated, developed campgrounds listed Exhibit A and Recreation Residences/Pack Stations/Range Permittees and Resorts listed in Exhibit B.

As always, the USDA Forest Service reminds everyone visiting a national forest to recreate responsibly to prevent wildfires – including noting fire restrictions, carrying tools to extinguish a flame, and reporting fires by calling 911.

The Pacific Southwest Regional Order for fire restrictions across all California national forests is also available in Spanish.