OutdoorMN News - Lack of snow means burning restrictions will happen soon

[Rick]

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds woodland owners to take care of vegetative debris such as dry branches now, as annual open burning restrictions will take effect shortly after snowmelt. 

“This winter burning permits have been required in areas of the state that have not been fully covered with snow,” said DNR wildfire prevention supervisor Linda Gormanson. “Warmer temperatures in February could quickly melt the snow that remains.”

A burning permit is required if there is less than 3 inches of snow on the ground. The chance for a fire to escape and burn into unintended areas and endanger lives, homes and property is greatly reduced when adequate snow cover is present. Check local city and municipalities for burning regulations prior to burning.

The DNR recommends composting leaves and twigs instead of burning to reduce air pollution and the chance of starting a wildfire. Visit the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s website for information on how to start composting yard waste.

After the snow melts, spring fire restrictions take effect and open burning will be restricted until vegetation turns green. The highest number of wildfires are in April and May when vegetation is dry and people commonly do spring clean-up activities. Due to the high number of wildfires during this time, the DNR initiates open burning permit restrictions to coincide with spring fire season. The DNR has seen a significant decrease in accidental fires when burning restrictions are in place.

Depending on weather and spring green-up conditions, restrictions remain in effect for four to six weeks. Visit the DNR’s burning restrictions page for more information.

Overall, 98 percent of wildfires in Minnesota are caused by humans. Individuals are responsible for costs to control an escaped fire and the damage it causes.

Discuss below - to view set the hook here.

[leech~~]

This could be a very bad wild fire spring?