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The USDA Forest Service Monday lifted the fire restrictions on the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest.
Rainfall and increases in the relative humidity across the forest have provided sufficient moisture levels to reduce the risk of wildfire.
“Our fire staff and other experts assess multiple factors, including weather conditions, when deciding if fire restrictions are necessary,” said Forest Supervisor Job Timm. “With the recent rains, the drought conditions have improved, and the risk of wildfires has decreased.”
The fire restrictions had been in place for over a month to maintain public safety and protect forest resources during extreme drought conditions. During that time, firefighters responded to multiple new fires in the forest, including the Matts Creek Fire, which grew to 11,020 acres before being fully contained.
Continued caution is still advised for all visitors building and maintaining campfires on the forest. Campfires should always be dead out and cold to the touch before being left unattended.
Rockbridge County had already lifted its ban on outdoor burning.
