The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) lifted restrictions on open burning throughout most of the state on Tuesday, May 28, however, a few areas in the extreme northern parts of the state plan to continue local restrictions until more moisture is received. As of May 30, Cook County is one of those areas. Burning permits will not be issued until there is sufficient green vegetative growth.
Local fire departments have been called to a number of grass fires because the wind flared and caused burn piles to get out of control. Fortunately the fires have been extinguished, but homeowners are cautioned to wait until green-up is complete before burning brush or yard debris. If a fire escapes, the homeowner is responsible for damage and suppression costs.
The DNR advises people to follow open burning laws and regulations. That means obtaining a burn permit through a state or federal forestry office or local fire warden. These officials can tell you if burning is—or is not—permitted.
Although debris burning is curtailed, campfires are still allowed. A “campfire” is defined as a fire set for cooking, warming or ceremonial purposes that is not more than three feet wide or three feet high, and has the ground five feet from the base of the fire cleared of all combustible material. Fires contained in a charcoal grill, camp stove or other device designed for the purpose of cooking or heating are also allowed.
Caution must still be used with campfires, however. It is best to burn only after 6 p.m. and to make sure the fire is “dead out” and doused with water before leaving it.
Officials also stress that fire conditions may change quickly. At press time the DNR fire danger for the Arrowhead region was “moderate.” Moderate fire condition means that fires start easily and spread at a fast rate.
For more information and maps and to check fire conditions, see www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/firerating_restrictions.html.
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