Celebrate the 4th of July Safely this Weekend

Release Date: Jun 30, 2014

Laura Pramuk 503-668-1791                                                         

Chris Bentley  503-668-1776

 

 

As we commemorate our country’s independence, this holiday provides a great opportunity to take advantage of the numerous recreation opportunities on the 1.1 million acre Mt. Hood National Forest, whether it is hiking, cycling, horseback riding, fishing, viewing wildlife, or picnicking.

 

Places to explore on the Mt. Hood National Forest include many developed recreation sites within the Clackamas River drainage, campgrounds and trails along Forest Roads 35 and 44, and climbing and hiking in the area around Mt. Hood.  The Mt. Hood NF also contains several congressionally designated wilderness areas. These special areas provide visitors with a more primitive experience with non-motorized access provided by several trails.

While celebrating this 4th of July holiday visitors to the Mt. Hood NF are asked to prevent wildfires. "Fireworks are prohibited on federal lands and we ask all visitors to the Mt. Hood National Forest to be extra careful with anything that could start a fire,” said Deb Roy, Fire Management Officer.  “At this time of the year fireworks are a big concern for federal land management officials.  That seemingly harmless sparkler, as well as the bigger combustible devices like rockets and Roman Candles can start a fire, and we want all visitors to enjoy being out on their public lands without the threat of wildfire.”

 

No public use restrictions are currently in effect on the national forest, but we ask that visitors pay special attention to campfires and make sure they are completely extinguished before leaving campsites. Soak fire areas with water and then carefully feel the fire materials. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave. Remember: DROWN…STIR…FEEL... (repeat)

Fires that appear to be out may smolder for several days and pick up again during the next wind event. The smallest spark has the potential to cause significant damage. Always crush cigarettes dead out, never leave a campfire unattended, ensure that your vehicle has a properly installed spark arrester that is operational, and stop and park only in areas clear of vegetation.

Let’s celebrate our nation’s Independence Day, but let’s leave the fireworks to the areas where they are legal and can be safely used. Discharging fireworks on federal public lands is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and a sentence of up to six months in jail. 

If you would like to find out more about the different recreational opportunities on the Mt. Hood National Forest, please stop in at any of our offices, visit our website at www.fs.usda.gov/mthoodor give us a call at (503) 668-1700.

 

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

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