No fireworks allowed on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests | Arts & Culture

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forest Supervisor Paul Bradley is reminding visitors and campers that the use of fireworks is prohibited on all national forests and national grasslands.

Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited on national grasslands and national forest lands year round, regardless of weather conditions or holidays.

“As we approach the commemoration of our nation’s independence, we remind forest visitors to celebrate safely,” said Bradley. “We each share the responsibility to protect our public lands for generations to come, and to do our part to reduce the threat of human-caused wildfires.”

Regulations are enforced on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests, and violation is punishable as a misdemeanor by a fine of not more than $5,000 or imprisonment of not more than six months, or both. Forest visitors are also reminded to ensure that all fires are extinguished and cold to the touch before leaving them.

The mission of the U.S. Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world.

For more information on the national forests in South Carolina, please visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/scnfs.