Fire restrictions go into effect in Panhandle

CHADRON — A severe drought and otherwise dry conditions continue in southwest South Dakota and in much of Nebraska Panhandle, so the Nebraska National Forest supervisor will be issuing fire restrictions for the western parts of the national forest and national grasslands.

The restrictions cover the Fall River Ranger District of the Buffalo Gap National Grassland in Fall River, Custer and Pennington counties in South Dakota. In Nebraska, they affect the Oglala National Grassland and Pine Ridge District of the Nebraska National Forest in Dawes and Sioux counties.

The prohibitions, which take effect Friday, are the least restrictive of three levels.

Open fires such as campfires or wood or charcoal stove fires are allowed only at developed or improved Forest Service sites.

Petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices will be allowed if they meet the fire underwriters safety specifications.

Smoking will be limited to enclosed vehicles or buildings, developed Forest Service sites or to areas clear of all flammable material within a 3-foot diameter.

Fireworks are barred from national forests and grasslands.