Carson National Forest lifted all Stage 2 fire restrictions at 6 a.m. on July 21. Officials rescinded the order after recent monsoonal storms, increased humidity, low wildfire danger, and strong public compliance significantly reduced the risk of human-caused wildfires across the forest.
They cautioned, however, that increased lightning activity is expected to continue throughout the monsoon season and could ignite new wildfires. Several lightning-caused fires were reported over the past week but were quickly contained by firefighters despite burning in areas with continuous fuels.
Although local restrictions have been lifted, permanent national fire prohibitions remain in effect year-round on all national forests, including a ban on fireworks. Visitors are also reminded never to leave campfires unattended and to completely extinguish them before leaving a campsite.
The decision drew criticism from many residents living in and around the Carson National Forest. Many took to the agency’s social media page to add their frustration with this decision.
“I live next to Carson National Forest, walk my dogs there every day. It is in no way moist, despite the bit of rain we have received,” Leslie Kennedy Wilson wrote on social media. “Please do not allow camp fires of any kind at this time.”
Becky Mayo, who said she owns property in the Tusas area, questioned whether officials had adequately assessed conditions.
“We have property on the Tusas, it is so dry,” Mayo wrote. “Had a good rain last Wednesday, but the creek is already drying up, the rain soaked right into the ground. Maybe get out of your vehicles and walk and see how powdery the dirt is?”
Rebecca Quintana, who said she lives along the western edge of the Carson National Forest, also believes the restrictions were lifted prematurely.
“Way too early,” Quintana wrote. “I border the Carson on the west side, and it’s very, very dry. The rains have been scattered, and it didn’t penetrate the soil. This could be a very big mistake.”
Others shared similar concerns.
“Just because we got a little rain don’t mean anything, the ground probably dried up right away,” Cheryl Quintana commented.
“Way too early,” wrote Joy Willis-Garcia. “Moisture has been hit and miss in most locations. Springs, creeks, ponds are all bone dry.”
Some residents said they fear that allowing campfires could put nearby communities and homes at risk if conditions remain as dry as they believe.
Forest officials emphasized that lifting local restrictions does not mean wildfire season is over. They urged visitors to continue practicing responsible fire safety and said temporary restrictions could be reinstated if conditions worsen later this summer.