With dry conditions persisting throughout much of Minnesota, wildfire agencies have restricted open burning throughout the state. As of midnight Oct. 6, by order of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Commissioner Tom Landwehr, open burning is only allowed for special exceptions by the county, state or federal agency having permitting responsibilities.
Recreational fires or campfires will only be allowed in designated fire receptacles designed for such use, provided they are associated with a residence, dwelling, campground or resort. “The decision to restrict burning is not taken lightly,” said Larry Himanga, DNR wildfire prevention coordinator. “Conditions in the state have created a situation where an ignition source could result in extensive damage or injury.”
The lack of early fall rain, combined with above normal temperatures and brisk winds, have created conditions more favorable to fires. The lack of precipitation allowed fuels to dry out, making them more susceptible to ignition and increasing the ability of fires to spread.
Restrictions are expected to remain in place for the foreseeable future. Firefighters caution everyone to be extra careful with their outdoor activities. Even recreational fires or campfires within receptacles and approved burn barrels have the potential to ignite nearby fuels.
The Forest Service also plans to continue its restrictions. As of Oct. 7, building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal fire or wood-burning stove is prohibited anywhere on national forest lands within the boundaries of the Chippewa National Forest and Superior National Forest. The only exception is within constructed steel fire grates provided by the Forest Service at fee-for-use campgrounds. Gas or propane camp stoves may be used anywhere on the national forests.
It is critical that these restrictions are followed to avoid harm to lives and property. Fire crews are working to control a new wildfire in northwestern Minnesota while crews continue work on the Pagami Creek Fire in the northeast. In the interest of public safety, some areas on the Superior National Forest near the Pagami Creek Fire remain closed. A list and map are available on the Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
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