Dinosaur, CO – Superintendent Mary Risser announced today that fire restrictions within Dinosaur National Monument will be reduced from Stage II to Stage I as of Friday, August 31. The cooler weather and increased moisture have lessened the fire danger somewhat, but not to the point that all restrictions can be lifted.

To protect visitors and park staff in Dinosaur National Monument and the natural and cultural resources, open fire restrictions remain in place. Building or using any open fire, campfire, or charcoal fire except within National Park Service-provided fire grates at developed campgrounds located at Green River, Split Mountain, Rainbow Park, Echo Park, Gates of Lodore and Deerlodge Park is prohibited. Charcoal fires or the use of charcoal in grills along the Harpers Corner Road and at
Plug Hat Butte Picnic Area are still prohibited at this time due to the dry and windy conditions in this area. Stoves that use pressurized gas or liquid fuel are permitted. All backcountry camp fires are prohibited, including along the Green and Yampa Rivers. This includes building any type of fire in a fire pan.

Smoking is permitted only in enclosed vehicles, developed recreation site, or in areas cleared of all flammable material. Fireworks are strictly prohibited in Dinosaur National Monument.

These restrictions will remain in effect until such time as the fire danger in the park becomes less severe. These restrictions are dependent upon extended fire weather and conditions and will be
evaluated daily. At this time, there are no fires reported within the park.

If necessary, National Park Service Rangers will issue citations to persons violating the terms of this closure under authority of Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations 1.5(f). The park asks for everyone’s continued cooperation during this high fire danger period to decrease the potential for a catastrophic fire in Dinosaur National Monument.