FIRE BAN LIFTED

[let it snow]

September 7, 2007

For Immediate Release

Terry Severson (218) 283-6600

VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK LIFTS BURNING RESTRICTIONS

The rainfall received this week over much of northern Minnesota has moderated fire danger for the short term. Rainfall amounts received across Minnesota varied from a trace to almost six inches. Given the rainfall amounts received, Voyageurs National Park has lifted the ban on fires in the park effective at noon on September 7, 2007.

Once again, visitors can have recreational fires (campfires) in designated metal fire rings. Charcoal fueled fires in metal fire rings and grills are also allowed.

Fires in rock rings are not allowed. Rock rings do not contain fires properly and can allow fire to escape.

The park staff thanks everyone for cooperating with the fire ban during the recent extreme fire danger period.

NEWS RELEASE

Reduced fire danger allows fire restrictions to be lifted throughout the state (2007-09-07)

The combination of an increased amount of precipitation, and a return to more normal late summer weather patterns and conditions, with shorter days, cooler temperatures and higher humidity, has reduced the potential for fires to start and spread.

Due to these changes, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Superior National Forest, Chippewa National Forest, Bureau of Indian Affairs, National Park Service, and U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced that fire restrictions across Minnesota will be lifted, effective at noon, on Friday, Sept. 7.

"The long awaited change in weather patterns significantly decreased fire potential throughout most of the state to once again to allow campfires, recreational fires, and charcoal fires throughout the State," DNR Fire Management Supervisor, Olin Phillips said. "Although the fire restrictions have been lifted, it is still important to remember to be extra careful when enjoying campfires, burning brush piles or debris in burn barrels; or disposing of ash from charcoal grills or other fire containers."

The Chippewa and the Superior National forests will allow the use of campfires, charcoal, and wood-burning camp stoves in all areas of the national forests, including the blowdown area in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).

At the same time, the Border Route Trail system will re-open and the entire Kekekabic Trail on the Superior National Forest will re-open for public use. For details, check with one of the forest offices or visit the Superior National Forest Web site at www.fs.fed.us/r9/superior or the Chippewa National Forest Web site at www.fs.fed.us/r9/chippewa.

Burning permits are once again available and will be issued by local fire management agencies.

For more information, contact public information officer, Minnesota Interagency Fire Center, at (218) 327-4558.