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.
- 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.
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.
- 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.