Montana FWP has banned campfires and restricted smoking and other activities at all of its fishing access sites in five southwestern Montana counties.
The fire restrictions were placed on FWP properties in Big Horn, Musselshell, Stillwater, Treasure and Yellowstone counties after county commissioners signed off on Stage 1 restrictions in response to dry, warm weather that could increase the danger of human-caused wildfires.
The changes went into effect in Yellowstone County Tuesday and will be added at midnight Friday morning in the other counties.
Stage 1 restrictions ban campfires except where specifically exempted, and allow smoking only in vehicles and areas three feet in diameter that are cleared of flammable materials. FWP has no exemptions for campfires in fishing access sites and wildlife management areas in south central Montana. People still may cook on an LP gas or propane stove that can be turned on and off.
The restrictions are in effect until further notice.
(Report by Montana FWP)
