A "hoot owl" woodcutting restriction was put in place by the Carson Ranger District starting today and until further notice. "Hoot owl" is a historic term used to notify woodcutters of elevated fire danger and to only cut in the morning hours, when you hear the hoot owls.
This has developed into a modern cutting policy of absolutely no mechanical saws running in the woods after 1 p.m. Loading wood that has been previously cut after 1 p.m. is acceptable.
Woodcutters are cautioned to watch the area at least 1 hour after cutting to ensure that no spark has been fanned into flame. There is a maximum fine of $5,000 and a possible jail term of up to six months for violation of this mandate. For information, call 882-2766.