CLARKSBURG, Mass. — The Department of Conservation and Recreation is dousing campfires at state parks and facilities until further notice. 

 

In an announcement late Tuesday, DCR said it was implementing a ban on all open flames and charcoal fires because of the high risk of wildfires. 

 

"We've been dealing with historic drought conditions which have been fueling fires across the state and here at Breakheart Reservation for the past few weeks," said DCR Commissioner Douglas Rice at the state reservation in Saugus where more than 75 acres have burned the last couple days. 

 

Last year, a brush fire on East Mountain in Clarksburg and Williamstown burned nearly 1,000 acres. 

 

Much of the state is at "critical" drought level because of lower than normal rainfall this season combined with higher than normal temperatures. 

 

The Berkshires an the islands are considered mild level for drought on Aug. 9.

 

Update Aug. 24: The state drought task force, after meeting Tuesday, on Wednesday updated the Berkshires and islands to a Level 2 "significant" drought. 

 

The diminished watershed and dry ground has raised concerns about fire activity. 

 

"This is probably the one drought year where we've had the most fire activity that we've seen," said Celino during the Breakheart press briefing broadcast by WCVB Channel 5. 

 

During the temporary ban, small portable propane grills are still allowed at campgrounds and recreation areas where grilling is permitted. 

 

Those burning are advised to never leave a fire unattended or dump out hot coals and to ensure they're out by drowning them. 

 

The rain over the past couple days is expected to help with conditions but officials note nearly 95 percent of the state is in drought conditions and a couple inches of rain will only bring temporary relief.