Forest-wide fire restrictions expanded to include recreational shooting; lawful hunting not restricted

Wenatchee - Due to prolonged, extreme fire conditions the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is expanding current fire restrictions to include recreational shooting effective immediately .
The expanded fire restrictions prohibit discharging a firearm on all lands, roads and trails within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The restrictions do not apply to individuals with a valid hunting license who are engaged in legal pursuit of game.
"The forest is currently managing multiple fires, as are many of our partners, and we have seen firsthand how quickly they are spreading this year when certain conditions are present," said Forest Supervisor Kristin Bail. "The current conditions and fire activity compel us to take additional measures to reduce the risk of new fires that increase risks to public and firefighter safety, communities, and resources. We appreciate your cooperation to prevent human caused fires."
All previous Stage 2 fire restrictions remain in place. Campfires of any type are prohibited forest-wide, even in developed campgrounds. Additional information on current fire restrictions is available at http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/fire-restrictions.