Post by Greg Stamper on Nov 8, 2016 6:37:12 GMT -5
US Forest Service to Enforce Campfire Restrictions
Posted: Nov 07, 2016 10:48 PM EST
Updated: Nov 08, 2016 5:35 AM EST
POWELL COUNTY, KY (LEX 18) - Dozens of fires continue to burn in a number of Eastern Kentucky counties, spanning hundreds, if not thousands, of acres.
From Menifee to Clay county, fire crews had their hands full Monday in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Rangers said they were fighting more than ten fires.
With drought conditions, they don't expect things to get any better.
"Until we get a break in the weather and get some rain, it's very difficult to get the fires completely out," said Tim Eling, Red River Gorge manager.
One problem spot for fire crews Monday was in Powell county off Tunnel Ridge Road.The fire covered only 10 acres of the Red River Gorge in the morning. By nighttime, crews estimate it was closer to 300 acres.
"It's easy for the fuel on the ground to catch fire," said Eling. "Whether it's the falling leaves or just logs and things that are on the ground, it's difficult to put it out."
While fire investigators don't know yet what started this fire in the red river gorge, they said there's a very good chance it could be because of an escaped camp fire. They're now stressing, more than ever, to pay attention to any restrictions.
"It's unusual to put in these kind of restrictions," Eling said. "We have done it before, but it's been several years."
The US Forest Service said all open flames are now banned in Daniel Boone National Forest. Any person caught doing otherwise will face a $300 fine.
Campers can have fires in metal rings or grills at campsites.
"We haven't had any fires at our campsite," said camper Christopher Crump. "We're both old eagle scouts so we know better."
Fire restrictions will stay in place until rangers believe the conditions are better. Burn bans are in effect for 50 counties in the Bluegrass.
www.lex18.com/story/33653429/us-forest-service-to-enforce-campfire-restrictions
Posted: Nov 07, 2016 10:48 PM EST
Updated: Nov 08, 2016 5:35 AM EST
POWELL COUNTY, KY (LEX 18) - Dozens of fires continue to burn in a number of Eastern Kentucky counties, spanning hundreds, if not thousands, of acres.
From Menifee to Clay county, fire crews had their hands full Monday in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Rangers said they were fighting more than ten fires.
With drought conditions, they don't expect things to get any better.
"Until we get a break in the weather and get some rain, it's very difficult to get the fires completely out," said Tim Eling, Red River Gorge manager.
One problem spot for fire crews Monday was in Powell county off Tunnel Ridge Road.The fire covered only 10 acres of the Red River Gorge in the morning. By nighttime, crews estimate it was closer to 300 acres.
"It's easy for the fuel on the ground to catch fire," said Eling. "Whether it's the falling leaves or just logs and things that are on the ground, it's difficult to put it out."
While fire investigators don't know yet what started this fire in the red river gorge, they said there's a very good chance it could be because of an escaped camp fire. They're now stressing, more than ever, to pay attention to any restrictions.
"It's unusual to put in these kind of restrictions," Eling said. "We have done it before, but it's been several years."
The US Forest Service said all open flames are now banned in Daniel Boone National Forest. Any person caught doing otherwise will face a $300 fine.
Campers can have fires in metal rings or grills at campsites.
"We haven't had any fires at our campsite," said camper Christopher Crump. "We're both old eagle scouts so we know better."
Fire restrictions will stay in place until rangers believe the conditions are better. Burn bans are in effect for 50 counties in the Bluegrass.
www.lex18.com/story/33653429/us-forest-service-to-enforce-campfire-restrictions