Complete Fire Ban Issued Across Arkansas as Wildfire Risk Remains High

Residents, property owners and outdoor recreation groups are being urged to use extreme caution as wildfire danger continues across the region following a recent wildfire at Cowhide Cove.

The Murfreesboro Fire Department is sharing an urgent wildfire safety notice regarding temporary restrictions being implemented by PotlatchDeltic. The company has enacted a COMPLETE FIRE BAN effective immediately for all recreational units (RUs) across Arkansas.

Under the temporary restrictions, the following activities are prohibited:

• No mowing or bushhogging.
• No grilling or outdoor cooking involving open flames.
• No smoking, fireworks or Tannerite.
• Do not park vehicles in tall grass.
• Do not park vehicles with hot exhaust systems in grassy or wooded areas.
• Use extreme caution when towing on the property. Underinflated tires, dragging chains and other equipment can create sparks when they come into contact with pavement or rocks in the soil.

Officials are asking all clubs, members and guests to make sure everyone is aware of the temporary restrictions. With dry conditions and elevated wildfire danger, even a small spark can potentially start a fire that spreads rapidly.

The restrictions could remain in place for some time, depending on weather and wildfire conditions. Property users will be notified when the fire ban is lifted.

Weyerhaeuser Issues Financial Responsibility Warning

Weyerhaeuser is also reminding property users and clubs that they may be held financially responsible for wildfire suppression costs if a wildfire results from activities associated with their property or operations.

The company is urging everyone to follow the temporary fire restrictions and take every possible precaution to prevent accidental fires.

Following these restrictions helps protect our communities, neighboring landowners and Arkansas’ natural resources, while also reducing the risk of costly and potentially dangerous wildfire incidents.

The Murfreesboro Fire Department is reminding residents that wildfires should be reported immediately by calling 9-1-1.

Officials also advise against parking vehicles with hot exhaust systems in grassy or wooded areas, as the heat can ignite dry vegetation.

Residents and property users are encouraged to review the official guidance from the Arkansas Forestry Division regarding burn bans, wildfire danger and prescribed burns.

With wildfire conditions potentially persisting for some time, officials are urging everyone to take the restrictions seriously and avoid any activity that could create a spark or ignite dry vegetation.

When in doubt, don’t burn. If you see a wildfire, call 9-1-1 immediately.