More Minnesota Counties to Begin Burning Restrictions April 4

Beginning Monday, April 4, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will start burning restrictions in several additional counties as conditions for wildfires have increased. The cool weather accompanied by snow or rain kept fire incidences low in the past two weeks. However, last year’s vegetation is dry and can easily catch on fire even if it has rained or snowed.

Open burning restrictions will take effect in the following counties: Becker, Beltrami, Cass (southern Cass restrictions are already in effect), Clearwater, Hubbard, Itasca, Kittson, Mahnomen, Marshall, Pennington, Polk (east of County Road 6 from the Mahnomen County line to the Red Lake County line) and Roseau.

During spring burning restrictions residents are not allowed to burn brush or yard waste. Restrictions usually begin two weeks after the snow melts and remain in place until summer green-up occurs. This is typically a four- to six-week time period. Minnesota reports the greatest number of wildfires in April and May, and most are caused by people. Putting restrictions in place during this time has significantly cut down on wildfire numbers and size.

As these restrictions take effect throughout the state, it’s a good idea to know the location of your municipal brush collection site. There are alternatives to burning yard debris or dead standing grass. Consider hauling brush to a collection site or chipping fallen branches and trees for mulch. With an early fire season ahead, it is wise to use caution and recognize that fire can spread quickly in windy and warm conditions. Anyone who starts a fire may be financially responsible for suppression costs and damage to structures.

For more information on fire condition and burning restrictions, visit the DNR website, www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/firerating_restrictions.html.