BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT OR-030-2013-17
For Immediate Release
Contact: Carolyn Chad
(541) 473-6203
BLM Urges Hunters to be Cautious
Vale, Oregon – The Bureau of Land Management, Vale District Office has experienced significant,
widespread lightning activity over the past several days and more is expected through the weekend. The
Vale District has had numerous fire starts as a result. Two of the fires have exceeded 10,000 acres.
The BLM would like to remind hunters and other public land users that fire conditions continue to be
extreme and public use restrictions are still in effect for the entire Vale District. Campfires are prohibited
except at designated recreation sites, smoking is prohibited in vegetated areas and cross-country vehicular
travel is also prohibited. All vehicles are required to carry a shovel and at least one gallon of water or a
fully charged 2.5 pound fire extinguisher. For a complete list of the public use restrictions, please visit the
district website at http://www.blm.gov/or/districts/vale/index.php or visit our office at 100 Oregon Street,
Vale, Oregon. Individuals who violate restrictions on public lands not only endanger themselves and
others, but they may be subject to penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
The BLM would also like to remind public land visitors to use caution when traveling on BLM roads in
proximity to active fires. Fire-fighting equipment and crews will also be using those roads, often in dark,
smoky or dusty conditions when visibility is limited. Be aware of the potential for a collision or injury in
proximity to fire-fighting operation. Use caution and do not block roads that might be needed for firefighter access. Remain aware of your location and possible exit routes in the event of fire activity in the
area.
For more information, call the Vale District Office at 541-47-3144. To report wildfires, call the Vale BLM
Dispatch Center at 541-473-6295 or toll free at 1-800-982-0287.