Arizona Public Radio | Your Source for NPR News
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Recreational Shooting Temporarily Banned On Three Arizona National Forests

The U.S. Forest Service will temporarily ban recreational shooting on the Prescott, Tonto and Coronado national forests to reduce the chance of wildfire.

Managers say the forests have become increasingly dry and winter moisture has caused the growth of grasses and other potential fuels.

“The decision to implement a shooting restriction is driven by amplified risk of wildfire in areas increasingly vulnerable to drying conditions combined with the likely resource shortage due to COVID-19 mitigation within our fire organization,” said Acting Regional Forester Elaine Kohrman in a press release. “This restriction also attempts to reduce smoke emissions that compromise first responder and public respiratory health.”

Under the order, firing any gun, air rifle or gas gun will be prohibited beginning Wednesday except for during lawful hunting. Officials say the Tonto, Prescott and Coronado have a history of wildfires begun by firearms. In the last two weeks, there have been seven fires on the forests attributed to possible shooting that have resulting in hundreds of burned acres.

Violators face possible federal court appearances, fines and other penalties.

Related Content