Because of extremely dry conditions, Douglas County is among eight counties that are now under a temporary ban for starting recreational fires.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is barring all recreational fires on DNR-managed lands in these additional area: the western portion of Roseau and all of Douglas, Kanabec, Kittson, Mille Lacs, Otter Tail, Pine and Pope counties.
Douglas County's fire danger risk is considered high by the DNR (see map).
The burning restrictions will remain in effect until revised or terminated by the DNR commissioner when weather and environmental conditions indicate a significant reduction in fire danger. Tribal nations regulate open burning for their communities.
Linda Gormanson, the DNR's burning permit coordinator, said the ongoing drought is fueling unusually high wildfire activity in Minnesota and that if conditions don’t improve, banning all campfires and limiting other activities such as welding could become a necessary response.
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This year, more than 1,600 wildfires have burned more than 35,000 acres in Minnesota.
Check the DNR statewide fire danger and burning restrictions map and follow the fire prevention tips. People who spot a wildfire should call 911.
Visit the DNR wildland fire information webpage for more information on current restrictions.
