The Bitterroot National Forest is changing its fire danger level from ‘Low’ to ‘Moderate’ starting Wednesday, June 27.
The shift to ‘moderate’ means that wildfires can now be expected to start from most accidental causes. In addition to lightning, that includes human causes like smoldering campfires left unattended.
Officials at the Bitterroot National Forest warn visitors that with a moderate fire danger, grass fires can spread quickly. They are reminding the public to be aware of fire hazards, especially with the Fourth of July next week.
Fireworks, like those that started the Eagle Creek wildfire that spread to 48,000 acres in Oregon last year, are not allowed in any National Forests.