Andy Rohrich has moved Chaffee County into Stage 2 Fire Restrictions due to elevated wildfire danger. The restrictions also apply within the municipalities of Buena Vista, Poncha Springs, and Salida.
Under Stage 2 Restrictions:
- No open fires may be built, maintained, or attended.
- All campfires are prohibited, including those in permanent fire rings and structures.
- Explosive targets and any incendiary devices that could ignite flammable material are prohibited.
LP gas and liquid-fueled stoves or appliances that allow the operator to turn the flame on and off with a valve remain permitted.
In a press release, Sheriff Rohrich said Stage 2 Restrictions will remain in effect through the Fourth of July weekend and that deputies have been directed to take a zero-tolerance approach toward fireworks violations. The fine for violating the fireworks ban is $750.
Chaffee County now joins Park County and Fremont County in implementing Stage 2 Fire Restrictions.
Meanwhile, lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the United States Forest Service remain under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at this time.
Officials also note that smoke visible throughout the Arkansas Valley is originating from active wildfires burning in Utah.
