Fire-danger land closures and restrictions will have a big impact on Labor Day plans this weekend. While many recreationists will be faced with land and recreation-site closures throughout western Montana, some western Montana campgrounds, lakes, and fishing access site are available for use. Visit FWP’s Internet website at fwp.state.mt.us for a list of western Montana sites that remain open for recreation. This week the Northern Rockies Coordinating Group, a team of fire experts that evaluate the risk of wild fire, placed all of eastern Montana under Level IV fire-danger restrictions. While Level IV restrictions do not prohibit outdoor recreation, the restrictions do prohibit the use of fire and certain vehicles and equipment. For instance, in Level IV zones campfires, the use of propane stoves, as well as the use of off-road vehicles are generally prohibited. Eastern Montana FWP officials say that due to the Level IV restrictions, the Amelia Island Fishing Access Site near Hysham and Pirogue Island State Park near Miles City will be limited to walk-in only use. In addition, officials warn campers headed to Tongue River Reservoir State Park and Hell Creek State Park on Fort Peck Reservoir the camping sites will be severely limited due to fire-safety restrictions. All are reminded that Montana is experiencing one of the driest seasons in recent memory. They should exercise caution with regard to the fire danger that is present in all areas of the state and be prepared to prevent wild fires on public and private land. This weekend be prepared to prevent and fight fire:
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