Help prevent wildfires

JEROME - After a wet spring, tall stands of cheat-grass and other vegetation from the valleys to the mountains are beginning to dry. To help protect Idaho's wildlands from fire, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game is asking sportsmen and others enjoying the outdoors to be extremely cautious. "With the 4th of July weekend upon us, hundreds of people will be headed to the woods and rangelands for a long holiday weekend," said David Parrish, Idaho Fish and Game Regional Supervisor in the Magic Valley Region. "We are asking people to adhere to the rules and think before acting. If someone starts a fire, the person responsible could be held liable for the cost of putting out the fire and restoration of the land. Criminal charges could also be pressed by the regulating land management agency." "We will have thousands of people out fishing, riding ORVs and camping this summer," Parrish said. "All it takes is one misguided step from one person to close down a whole area for the year, and the wildlife could lose needed habitat." When heading to the backcountry, here are a few things to remember: - Leave fireworks home - fireworks are prohibited on most public lands - Park vehicles on areas clear of vegetation - Confine campfire to developed sites - Be careful with campfires and make sure they are out before leaving or going to bed - Check and make sure ATVs and motorcycles have spark arresters that are in good working order For more information on fire danger, call your local U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management or the Idaho State Lands Department office.