Officials are restricting recreational target shooting in the Pike-San Isabel National Forests and the Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands because of dry fuel conditions and persistent fire weather patterns.

The order went into in effect Wednesday and runs through 11:59 a.m. Aug. 1, according to a news release from the U.S. Forest Service.

The National Forest System land falls within the South Platte Ranger District boundaries, specifically Park, Jefferson, Douglas, Clear Creek and Teller counties; the South Park Ranger District, Park and Teller counties; and the Pikes Peak Ranger District, El Paso, Park and Teller counties.

Recent wind and dry conditions along with record-breaking heat have elevated the risk of wildfires and led to an emergency Stage 1 fire restriction order on March 27.

Under the restrictions, discharging a firearm, air rifle or gas gun is prohibited in the South Platte, South Park and Pikes Peak ranger districts. Violation will result in a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $5,000 for an individual, $10,000 for an organization, and a maximum 6-month prison sentence.

More information on the restrictions is available on the alerts webpage. Alternative shooting opportunities are on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife shooting range finder.