FHBC enacts Burn Ban for Fort Hall Reservation effective June 1

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
By ROSELYNN YAZZIE
Office of Public Affairs

FORT HALL — The Fort Hall Business Council of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes has approved a resolution enacting a burn ban for all lands within the boundaries of the Fort Hall Reservation, effective June 1, 2026, until further notice.

The action comes in response to ongoing drought conditions affecting the Fort Hall Reservation and the entire State of Idaho. With the Governor of Idaho having declared a statewide emergency due to drought conditions across all 44 counties, Tribal leadership is taking proactive steps to reduce wildfire risk and protect community safety.

The burn ban was enacted to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of Tribal members and all residents within the reservation, while helping ensure emergency response resources remain available and effective during a period of heightened fire danger.

Under the burn ban all open burning is prohibited within the boundaries of the Fort Hall Reservation. Exceptions include ceremonial burning; commercial gas fire pits; appliances designed for food preparation, including grills and charcoal briquettes, when used according to manufacturer instructions.

The burn ban will remain in effect until fire conditions improve and the threat has been reduced.

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Fire Department, in coordination with the Fort Hall Police Department, will enforce the burn ban. Violations may result in penalties under applicable Tribal laws and codes. Individuals who start fires through illegal burning or fireworks may also be held financially responsible for fire suppression costs, damages, and restitution related to mitigation efforts.

“The Fort Hall Business Council is committed to taking preventative measures to protect lives, property, natural resources, and the wellbeing of our community,” said the Fort Hall Business Council Chairwoman Donna Thompson. “We ask all residents and visitors to do their part to observe the burn ban and exercising extreme caution during these dangerous drought conditions.”

Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any unauthorized burning or fire-related emergencies immediately.

For additional information, please contact the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Fire Department 208-478-3784 or for emergencies call 208-238-4000 or 911.