Cooler conditions are predicted for lands protected by the Coos Forest Protective Association. Effective at 12:01 a.m., Friday, August 28th, Regulated Use Areas CS-2, CS-4, CS-5, SK-1 and SK-2 will lower to an Industrial Fire Precaution Level 3 (IFPL 3). This will put all lands protected by CFPA at an IFPL 3. Under IFPL 3, industrial operators are prohibited in performing the following: • Cable yarding – except that gravity operated logging systems with non-motorized carriages may operate before 1:00 p.m. and after 8:00 p.m. when all blocks and moving lines are suspended 10 feet above ground, except the line between the carriage and the chokers; • Power saws – except at loading sites and at tractor skidder operations before 1 p.m. and after 8 p.m. local time; In addition, the following are permitted before 1 p.m. and after 8 p.m.: • Tractor, skidder, feller-buncher, forwarder, or shovel logging operations where tractors, skidders, or other equipment with a blade capable of constructing fireline are immediately available to quickly reach and effectively attack a fire start; • Mechanized loading or hauling of any product or material; • Blasting; • Welding or cutting of metal; • Any other spark emitting operation not specifically mentioned. The Regulated Use Closure will remain in place. Non-industrial power saw use is now permitted in all areas. Power saw use is prohibited between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Each saw must have one axe or pulaski, one shovel and one operational fire extinguisher that is of at least 8 ounce capacity. Power saws must be equipped with a spark arrestor. In addition, a fire watch is required for at least one hour following the use of each saw. Hunters and recreationists will need to contact local landowners to see if entry onto their land is permitted. For further information on fire danger levels and closures, contact the CFPA 24-hour closure information line at (541) 267-1789 or access CFPA’s website at www.coosfpa.net.
