Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

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MONTROSE, Colo. - Black Canyon and Curecanti will move to Stage 1 fire restrictions at 12:01 AM on Thursday, June 18, 2026. The restrictions are in alignment with multiple state and federal partners in order to reduce the risk of fire in the region.

Pursuant to regulations of the Department of Interior, 36 Code of Federal Regulations, andthe Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation AreaSuperintendent's Compendia under sections 1.5 Closure and public use limits, 2.13 Fires,2.21 Smoking, and 2.38 Explosives, during periods of high fire danger weather, thefollowing acts are prohibited:

1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using wood or charcoal fires anywhere butwithin campground- or picnic area-provided grills or grates. (The use of gas grillsand camp stoves is permitted.)

2. Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or while stopped in anarea at least three feet in diameter that is barren of all flammable materials.

3. Discharging or using any kind of fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices are always prohibited on federal public lands, including Black Canyon and Curecanti.

Area Description:
• All lands within the boundaries of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park andCurecanti National Recreation Area.

Fire use by visitors in the parks is regulated to protect resources and visitors. The intent ofStage 1 fire restrictions is to reduce the number of human-caused fires during periods ofvery high fire danger by decreasing potential sources of ignition.

Montrose, Gunnison, and Delta Counties are experiencing critical fire conditions--extremely dry fuels, above normal temperatures, low humidity, minimal precipitation, andhigh winds. As many fires ignite across the west, competition for firefighting resourcesremains high.

When necessary, National Park Service rangers will issue citations to persons violatingthe terms of this closure under authority of Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations 1.5(f) - punishable by up to $5,000 in fines and/or up to 6 months in jail. Information is available on each park's website: www.nps.gov/blca and www.nps.gov/cure.

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About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov .