The Federal Bureau of Land Management is limiting target shooting on public lands in San Benito County starting Saturday.
In a press release dated July 21, the BLM states that the limit would begin July 22 from 30 minutes before sunrise until 12 p.m.
The agency is limiting target shooting in Fresno and Monterey counties as well. The press release said the temporary restriction will last until the fire dangers subside. The National Interagency Fire Center predicts above normal fire danger for the region, which indicates a greater likelihood of significant wildland fire. Recreational shooters must avoid using targets made of material capable of exploding or emitting sparks. Shooters must also carry shovels or fire extinguishers. The press release said the limitations don’t apply to the use of firearms for hunting.
“We all have to do our part to prevent wildfires and already this season we have experienced several wildland fires in popular recreation areas,” said Ben Blom, field manager out of the BLM Central Coast Field Office. “With the extremely dry conditions and abundant fire fuel available, we need to take these extra precautions to try to protect our public lands and ensure the safety of our visitors.”
The field office implemented a set of seasonal fire restrictions in June that include:
- No campfires or open flames
- No tools powered by internal combustion engines off established roads or trails
- No smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, designated developed recreation site or other designated areas
- No motorized vehicles off established roads or trails
- No shooting using incendiary, tracer, steel core or armor-piercing ammunition
- No fireworks, including safe and sane devices
- No welding, operating acetylene or other torches
A complete listing of all fire restrictions for BLM California public lands is available online at https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/regional-info/california/fire-restrictions
More fire information can be found at https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation or by calling the Central Coast Field Office at (831) 582-2200.
