Habitats are dry and fire danger is high at some wildlife areas

PHOENIX – The Arizona Game and Fish Department is following the lead of other agencies and has implemented fire restrictions at some of its wildlife areas.

Wildlife officials said a good rule of thumb to follow is that if a state wildlife area is located within a national forest or other jurisdiction such as the BLM or State Land Department that has implemented fire restrictions, then expect Game and Fish to follow suit.

For the latest updates on fire restriction in Arizona, visit the Public Lands Information Center at http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php.

The Game and Fish Department has implemented restrictions at:

* Alamo Wildlife Area
* Aravaipa Wildlife Area
* Arlington Wildlife Area
* Base and Meridian Wildlife Area
* Powers Butte Wildlife Area
* Robbins Butte Wildlife Area
* Roosevelt Lake Wildlife Area
* Three Bar Wildlife Area
* Upper Verde Wildlife Area

In those affected wildlife areas, no open fires are allowed – including charcoal-burning barbecues. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, is prohibited. However, you can still us gas and propane stoves, lanterns or heating devices.