Burn Ban, Air Quality Advisory issued

Due to poor current and forecasted air quality conditions from wildfire smoke, a Burn Ban is in effect for today, Tuesday, Sept. 5, starting at 9 a.m. on the Nez Perce Reservation, according to Johna Boulafentis, Nez Perce Tribe Environmental Outreach Specialist.

Camping and recreational fires are prohibited in these areas. This action does not apply to fires set for cultural or traditional purposes (FARR General Rule for Open Burning, Section 49.131).

Air quality on the Nez Perce Reservation is currently or forecasted to be in the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" category. This means that everyone should limit exertion outdoors. Sensitive individuals have an increasing likelihood of respiratory symptoms, asthma, and aggravation of heart or lung disease. Sensitive individuals include children, the elderly, those with existing health conditions, and people who have high exposure (those who work, exercise, or spend extensive time out of doors).

Wildfire smoke is forecasted to move in and out of the area throughout the day and overnight. Some areas may be more impacted than others. Visibility has been reported to be poor in some areas, so please take appropriate precautions.

These restrictions are in effect through 9 .a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6. Conditions will be reassessed at that time.

If you have questions, please contact: Boulafentis, Air Quality Project, Nez Perce Tribe, 208-843-9381 or 1-800-720-4089 or fax: 208-843-8411.

There is also information about Air Rules for Reservations (FARR) on the web site at www.epa.gov/r10earth/FARR.htm