The Jarvis fire began June 25, 2006, and cost more than $1.5 million to combat, according to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. The blaze charred BLM, state, private and Shivwits Indian Reservation property.

The juveniles and an 18-year-old man were drinking alcohol at an outdoor party when they started a campfire, according to the BLM. Outdoor fires were banned in Washington County on May 26, 2006.

In 5th District Court appearances between Feb. 21 and June 29, the juveniles admitted to charges in connection with the fire. The juveniles and the 18-year-old were charged with reckless burning, causing a catastrophe and closed fire season violations. Four of the juveniles were also charged with obstruction of justice.

The case against the 18-year-old has yet to be resolved, according to the BLM.

On July 5, Judge Thomas M. Higbee sentenced the juveniles to 30 days in jail and $500 restitution, and ordered them to write a 500-word essay and complete 225 and 275 hours of community service.

However, the juveniles will only spend up to 20 days behind bars, the BLM stated.

Officials plan to seek costs to battle the fire in civil court.

- Nathan C. Gonzalez