The Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands in Nebraska and South Dakota– including the Fort Pierre National Grasslands– are under a Stage 2 Fire and Smoking Restrictions Special Order. Forest Supervisor Jack Isaacs says restrictions are necessary because of dry fuel conditions, persistent fire weather patterns and the danger of human-caused wildfires. This includes National Forest System lands on the Wall, Fall River, Fort Pierre, Bessey and Pine Ridge Ranger Districts of the Nebraska National Forests & Grasslands, to include the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest and the Oglala and Buffalo Gap National Grasslands. Isaacs says the order stays in effect through Dec. 31, 2024, unless rescinded earlier (Oct. 11-Dec. 31, 2024). He says recent dry, windy and hot weather conditions have resulted in an elevated potential for wildfires. Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit the ignition of any fire, campfire, charcoal barbecue, or grill, unless the device is solely fueled by liquid gas that can be turned on and off (this includes in developed Forest Service campgrounds and picnic areas). Isaacs says fall hunting seasons are underway, and hunters are reminded that all restrictions apply to all visitors. Even seemingly insignificant, small warming fires can be the cause of wildfires. He says forest staff will continue to monitor conditions to assess the need for further action, including additional restrictions or lessening restrictions, depending on current conditions. Find more information in this story on the News page at www.DRGnews.com. Stage 2 Fire and Smoking prohibitions include: Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal barbecue, or grill, unless the device is solely fueled by liquid gas that can be turned on and off (this includes in developed Forest Service campgrounds and picnic areas). Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building. Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine (e.g. chainsaw, generator, ATV) without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order. Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame. Using an explosive. This includes but is not limited to fuses, blasting caps, fireworks, rockets, exploding targets, tracers, and incendiary ammunition. Possessing or using a motor vehicle off National Forest Service roads, except when parking in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of the motor vehicle. Exemptions Include: Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order or a written determination by a Forest Service authorized officer that a permit is not required. Any Federal, State, or Local Officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting resource in the performance of an official duty. For a digital version of this Order and map, go to Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands – Home (usda.gov). For more information on the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/nebraska or follow the Forest on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaForestsGrasslands.