Burning Restrictions Go Into Place Wednesday

(KNSI) — With more than 70% of the state in abnormally dry to mild drought conditions, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is activating burn restrictions starting Wednesday.

If you are traveling to the north shore, no open burning and campfires are not allowed in Carlton, Cook, Lake and St. Louis counties. Burn permits in that area also will not be issued or activated.

Allissa Reynolds, wildfire prevention supervisor, said while residents and visitors in Carlton, Cook, Lake, and St. Louis counties may still see plenty of green vegetation, the current fire situation remains dangerous. “Unusually dry conditions have increased the risk of fire. One unintentional spark in these conditions could result in thousands of charred acres and property damage,” Reynolds said, “This is a dangerous time for wildfires in northeast Minnesota.”

A line from Kanabec County southwest to Big Stone County and north to the border has no open burning, but campfires are allowed in a DNR approved fire ring. The fire danger rating is moderate to very high, where fires can start easily and spread quickly. In Benton, Sherburne and Stearns counties, burn permits are required.

See the map by clicking here.

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