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Just in time, DNR lifts ban on recreational fires
Staff Writer Campfires are back, just in time for Memorial Day weekend.
The DNR on Thursday lifted its two-week, statewide ban on recreational fires. However, burning permits are still only being issued by DNR offices on a case-by-case basis because of need or hardship.
The ban was lifted after several days of rain across most of the state and the subsequent green up of trees, grasses and plants. On Thursday the entire state had a low fire danger.
"We've got enough green up that we kind of feel that the danger of a rapid fire spread or major damage is less," said Mark Mortensen, Brainerd DNR program forester.
In light of the DNR's decision, Brainerd Fire Chief Fred Underhill said a separate recreational fire ban for the cities of Brainerd and Baxter also had been lifted Thursday.
"But we're still keeping a close eye on it," Underhill said of fire conditions after the Brainerd area received spotty moisture the past couple of days.
A campfire, defined by the DNR, is a fire set for cooking, warming or ceremonial purposes which is not more than three feet in diameter by three feet high and has had the ground five feet from the base of the fire cleared of all combustible material.
Mortensen said residents of Baxter still need a permit to burn leaves and brush but at this point such burning wouldn't be considered a hardship. Burning of leaves and brush is never allowed in Brainerd, per city ordinance.
Rain is in the forecast into the weekend, according to the National Weather Service in Duluth, with a 20 percent chance Friday afternoon, a 50 percent chance Friday night and a 50 percent chance of rain Saturday.
Following clear skies Saturday night and Sunday, there also is a 20 percent chance of rain showers and thunderstorms on Memorial Day.
MATT ERICKSON may be reached at matt.erickson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5857.
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Overcast, 61°
