With drought conditions impacting much of the state, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is reminding people that the smallest spark can start a wildfire that can impact hunting across the state.

Hunters are encouraged to take extreme care when building fires at camp and ensure they are completely out before going to bed, leaving for the day or packing out.

To prevent impacts to hunting seasons and access, the department has instituted fire restrictions and bans on many commission-owned and administered lands across the state.

“A fire ban is meant to keep the public safe and protect wildlife habitat,” said Ray Bredehoft, the department’s habitat and access branch chief. “If there are restrictions on Game and Fish property, they will be posted on the website as they are implemented or lifted.”

The U.S. Forest Service and other land-management agencies may also have fire bans on their property. Hunters should check with each respective agency to see if their camping location has any fire restrictions or rules.

“Some of our hunt areas had to close completely in previous years as a result of fires in the area,” Bredehoft said.

A fall wildfire, with its increased temperature and drier conditions, scorches the soil and sterilizes it to the point that native plants struggle to recover for years. It creates an environment primed for weeds, like cheatgrass, that are extremely difficult and costly to eradicate.