U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lifting fire restrictions on two national wildlife refuges in southern Nevada

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Press Release
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lifting fire restrictions on two national wildlife refuges in southern Nevada

LAS VEGAS — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is lifting fire restrictions on the Desert National Wildlife Refuge and the Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge. The restrictions end on Saturday, October 23, 2021.

Decreasing daily sunlight, increasing fuel moisture levels, and cooler evening temperatures are allowing the Service to lift fire restrictions on the two wildlife refuges. However, the potential for wildfires remains, so the public is encouraged to be very careful with any fire.

On the Desert National Wildlife Refuge, use of the provided fire rings at the Desert Pass campground is required. On the Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge, visitors are required to use grills or the provided fire rings. The use of any fire ring not provided by the wildlife refuges, rock rings, and fires on open ground are prohibited.

Recreationists are reminded to be fire safe with all their outdoor activities, including ensuring that campfires are dead out. Leaving campfires unattended is a Class B misdemeanor. Other important reminders for all outdoor enthusiasts include the following:

  • The use of propane stoves versus campfires and charcoal grill fires is still preferred in these dry conditions.
  • Target shooting is prohibited at all times.
  • Only “highway-legal” vehicles can be driven on wildlife refuge roads. Riding motorcycles without a spark arrestor can cause wildland fires.
  • All OHVs (Dirt Bikes, ATVs, UTVs, and Side by Sides) are prohibited at all times.
  • Campers must bring their own firewood. Cutting or collecting vegetation is prohibited.
  • Careless smoking is a known cause of wildland fires.
  • Fireworks are always illegal to possess and use on all federal, state, and private land in Nevada.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. For more information about our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov/cno/ or connect with us via Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Flickr.

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