VALENTINE, Neb. - The U.S. Forest Service is considering implementing Stage 1 fire restrictions on Nebraska’s National Forests and Grasslands, including in Cherry County.

Tedd Teahon of the Forest Service met with the Cherry County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday to discuss the proposal. He also plans on discussing the plans with Blaine County commissioners this week. If approved, the restrictions would prohibit open campfires, though stove fires would still be allowed. Stove fires are defined as fires contained within an enclosed stove or grill, a portable brazier, or a pressurized liquid gas stove, including space-heating devices.

Teahon noted the restrictions would likely require all ATVs and UTVs operating on Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands to carry a fire extinguisher and a shovel — a precaution stemming from previous fires started by off-road vehicles.

The proposed rules would also ban explosives such as fireworks and blasting caps.

Cherry County commissioners expressed support for the restrictions but said they would need to review a formal order before taking a vote.

“If it can stop one 10,000-acre fire, it’s worth it,” said Commissioner Mike McConaughey.

“I think we’ve all had enough incidents and accidents to support something like this,” added Commissioner Nina Nelson.