In this file photo, smoke rises from the Watchman Fire, Zion National Park, Utah, July 29, 2023 | Photo courtesy of National Park Service/ Colton Johnston, St. George News
ST. GEORGE — Effective at 12:01 a.m. MDT on Saturday, June 8, fire restrictions will be implemented in Zion Canyon.
Restrictions include no smoking near vegetation or building campfires in Watchman Campground. According to a news release issued by park officials Friday morning, restrictions will stay in effect until lifted by the park superintendent.
“One person’s actions can effect thousands of acres of land,” Lyndsay Fonger, Zion National Park fire management officer, said in the news release. “Make sure you do not smoke near dry plants or build campfires in Zion Canyon to protect people, property, and the park itself.”
Fire restrictions
- Setting, building, maintaining, attending, or using open fires of any kind in the park in general, and specifically campfires and charcoal fires within Watchman Campground or picnic areas in Zion Canyon. (Stoves fueled by petroleum or liquid propane gas fuels are allowed.)
- Smoking in vegetated areas, except within an enclosed vehicle or a developed recreation site or stopped in an area devoid of vegetation at least 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter.
Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
Conditions at Zion
Vegetation has grown tall thanks to a wet winter and spring. But invasive grasses, like cheatgrass, are now drying out and becoming extremely flammable in the summer heat. They present a significant fire danger to park visitors and facilities, especially in the campgrounds in Zion Canyon.
Use Fire Sense
No matter when you visit Zion, and especially in hot, dry summer months, remember:
- Your car engine may be hot, especially after long drives. Park away from dry plants, and never park on top of plants.
- Check chains on trailers to make sure they don’t drag under your car.
- Using fireworks is prohibited all the time on public lands.