Field reports: Some campers remain unaware of campfire ban

FORESTS – It’s no secret that blistering temperatures, a nonexistent snowpack and no rain have turned the state’s wildlands into tinderboxes.

Still, many people don’t seem to know that campfires have been banned for nearly a month across the Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest, according to Forest Service patrols.

On a recent weekend, on the Naches Ranger District near Yakima, fire patrollers found about a dozen violations.

Many people say they’re unaware of the restriction, even though it is posted at the Naches Ranger Station and on campground signs.

The violations are so numerous Forest Service officials warned last week that they will consider shutting down access to parts of the district if problems continue.

Rosalie Chavez, a Yakima resident who was camping with her family last week at the Windy Point campground on the banks of the Tieton River, said she supports the ban, even though it means the family must roast hot dogs and make s’mores over a propane burner instead of a camp fire.

“It’s good for safety,” she said. “We want to keep it nice out here.”

St. Joe travel plan out for public review

PUBLIC LANDS – A proposed Travel Management Environmental Assessment that designates motorized travel routes for the St. Joe Ranger District has been updated and is available for public comment.

The plan has been developed based on a 2005 Travel Management Rule that requires each national forest to designate roads, trails and areas that will be open to motorized travel and publish the information on a Motor Vehicle Use Map.

After the map is published, cross-country wheeled motorized vehicle use will be prohibited.

The 30-day public comment period ends Sept. 8.

Information on the plan is available from the district’s St. Maries office, (208) 245-2531, or on the project website.

Fly Fishing Fair to open in Oregon

FISHING – A long list of activities will greet participants in the International Federation of Fly Fishers 50th anniversary fair Thursday-Saturday in Bend, Oregon.

Experts, including Joan Wulff, will present 92 workshops on a range of skills

Exhibits and competitions are planned as well as a Youth Camp and Women’s University.

Info: fedflyfishers.org.

Handpick huckleberries, forest officials urge

FORESTS – Especially during this year’s dry conditions, Idaho Panhandle National Forest officials are urging huckleberry pickers to be gentle with bushes and handpick their berries.

“This ensures that bushes will remain healthy and productive for many years to come,” said Jason Kirchner, forest spokesman.

“Although rakes and other mechanical devices may be used, they are strongly discouraged. The use of rakes and other devices results in harvesting ripe and unripe berries indiscriminately, robbing others of the opportunity to pick berries later. Similarly, any methods that damage the bushes are illegal and may result in a fine.”