Due to extremely dry conditions within the parks and the lack of moisture received during the monsoon season, the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department will extend fire restrictions through October 31, 2024.
"Although it's almost October, we must continue to adhere to fire restrictions for a little while longer," said Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jack Sellers, District 1. "The triple-digit temperatures and dry monsoon season have created the perfect circumstances for wildfires to spread quickly, posing a threat to communities across Maricopa County. Let's each do our part to stay safe and prevent fires."
This summer, work on a railroad sparked a wildfire that quickly spread to the Hassayampa River Preserve, causing a temporary park closure and evacuation in June. The Rose Fire scarred approximately 100 acres of parkland. Unfortunately, this would not be the only park to experience damage from wildfire activity throughout the arid summer. Recently, McDowell Mountain Regional Park was impacted by the McDowell and Gate wildfires, which scorched more than 1,000 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert parkland.
"We've also had close calls near the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area and Cave Creek Regional Park this season. For this reason, our team has decided to extend the fire ban through October 31. The continued restrictions include all campfires, fire pits, and charcoal grills. In addition, smoking outside of vehicles and campers is prohibited," R.J. Cardin, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation director.
The use of gas and propane grills in designated areas is acceptable. Violation of Park Rule R-113 may result in a citation.
Eleven Maricopa County regional parks have been affected by the fire ban: Lake Pleasant Regional Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, Adobe Dam Regional Park, Buckeye Hills Regional Park, Estrella Mountain Regional Park, Hassayampa River Preserve, San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Usery Mountain Regional Park, McDowell Mountain Regional Park, Cave Creek Regional Park, and Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area.
If you have questions regarding the fire ban, contact the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department at (602) 506-2930, or visit www.maricopa.gov/parks.