NEWS

UPDATED 9/7/2023 – updates in bold

Louisiana Tech University and the athletics department announced changes to gameday tailgating and parking for Saturday’s home matchup against Northwestern State as a result of the statewide burn ban issued by the Office of Louisiana State Fire Marshal.

Due to the increase in fire danger across Louisiana because of severe dry conditions, the burn ban order went into effect on Aug. 25 and will remain in effect until rescinded.

As a result, fire safety guidelines will be put in place for gameday Saturday including no open flames (grilling with propane, pellets, charcoal, etc.) permitted in tailgate areas surrounding the Thomas Assembly Center, Hide-A-Way Park, and other tailgating areas on grass. Cooking and grilling on the asphalt parking lots using contained cooking equipment like grills and smokers, designed for cooking purposes only, on a flame-resistant surface with a water source or fire extinguisher nearby will be permitted. The fuel source for this equipment (propane, charcoal, pellets, etc.) is not a factor in its acceptable use. The use of open flames in fire pits, campfires, barrels, bonfires, burn piles, and like open burning is still prohibited.

Electric grilling is permissible in the grass area around the Thomas Assembly Center. Fans are encouraged to cook offsite and bring food to their tailgate areas. Meanwhile, free food will be provided at Argent Pavilion (food cooked offsite) thanks to a partnership between Experience Ruston and Explore Louisiana. Food will be served from 3-5 p.m. and is open to the public.

Parking will be allowed on grass in the area around the Thomas Assembly Center. No vehicles will be allowed in Hide-A-Way. Generators will be allowed around Joe Aillet Stadium and the TAC provided they are not placed on grass and instead on the pavement or sidewalk.

As a reminder, Louisiana Tech is a tobacco free environment and the use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, or any smoking device is prohibited on campus.

Conditions will continue to be monitored leading up to the game, which may alter the parking and tailgating restrictions. The status of this burn ban order will be reconsidered on a weekly basis by the State Fire Marshal.

For the most up-to-date information on the statewide burn ban, visit www.lasfm.org.