(KNSI) – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says the recent rainfall has allowed for some relaxed burn restrictions ahead of the Labor Day holiday weekend.
State-mandated burning restrictions are being lifted in all or part of 19 counties, and restrictions are being reduced in all or part of 16 additional counties. These changes reflect reduced wildfire risks overall, but officials say the wildfire danger is still there, and the DNR is asking the public to remain vigilant about how and where they do their burning.
Attended campfires in established fire rings at a home, cabin, or campground is now allowed. Campfires are not allowed for dispersed, remote, or backcountry camping on state, county, or private property, but camping stoves are. Open burning permits are still restricted.
The new restrictions affect the eastern portion of Roseau County and all of Beltrami, Becker, Cass, Clearwater, Cook, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Ottertail, St. Louis, and Wadena counties. State lands on the Gunflint Trail and around the Greenwood Fire are still closed and are not affected by the updated burning restrictions.
The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows 57.65% of the state was in extreme or exceptional drought last week. This week, that figure is down to 37.73%. That includes 6.78% of the state in exceptional drought, down from 8.07%. The northern third of Minnesota, roughly from Highway 2 and north, is still experiencing the driest conditions.
For the latest statewide fire danger and burning restrictions, click here.
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