DNR Warns Wildfires Threaten Minnesota as Drought Conditions Persist

(KNSI) — Smoky the Bear has always said, “Only you can prevent forest fires,” and he’s right, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

DNR Wildfire Prevention Specialist Karen Harrison tells KNSI that over 90% of wildfires in the state are caused by people. “In conditions like this, any spark could cause a wildfire. So it’s really important to be careful with any open flame or any activity that can create sparks when you’re outside in these conditions.”

The conditions to which she’s referring are the mild drought we’ve slipped into with our recent spell of warm, dry weather.

The main culprit, she says, is burning large piles of brush or vegetation, but she adds that we may want to rethink a popular backyard fall activity. “Campfires are even strongly discouraged because those embers can be carried quite a distance. If it’s windy out, embers can go over a mile away and ignite a wildfire in a different area, so make sure all of your fires, even a recent burning, is out cold, go out, drown it with water, stir and repeat until it’s no longer hot to touch.”

Burning restrictions are in place in most of our 87 counties. Campfires haven’t been outlawed yet except in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The U.S. Forest Service governs fire restrictions in the BWCAW, so they can differ from those set forth by the DNR.

Harrison says even backyard grilling can be dicey. “Make sure those coals are out cold before you discard them.”

Fall harvest, clean up and yard work can also be an issue, according to Harrison. “If you’re doing using any equipment or outdoor activities that could create heat or a spark, this is another thing to be careful [of]. If you’re mowing your lawn, if you’re doing some agricultural work, look behind you as you’re working. Make sure there’s no smoke coming up.”

See the fire danger and burning restrictions map here.

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