Caledonia Argus

County has open burning restrictions

Posted: 9/2/03

The Department of Natural Resources is restricting open burning in Houston County until weather conditions improve. No burning permits will be issued and active burning permits are suspended until conditions improve.

Rainfall during the months of July and August are far below average. Under these conditions small fires have great potential to escape control measures and grow into significant destructive wildfires that could destroy property and endanger human life. South and east facing slopes, all grasslands, and some corn fields are extremely combustible at this time. People wishing to burn are being asked to wait until conditions improve or handle the disposal of the materials in another manner. Burning with out a permit is unlawful under Minn. Statute 88.17 subd 1 and this law will be enforced with fires extinguished at the responsible parties expense.

Open burning still allowed is listed below:

Fires contained in grills, camp stoves, or other devices for cooking or heating.

Campfires (up to 3' diameter by 3' high) in a pit or fire ring, surrounded by a five-foot wide area cleared of all vegetation and other flammable material.

Fire for commercial needs such as land clearing and debris removal by road authorities, construction companies, and utility companies if adequate equipment and manpower are available to control fires.

Prescribed burns that have been permitted by the Caledonia Forestry Office for vegetative management by public agencies, private organizations, or private individuals. Prescribed burn plans are required for all running fires, and most have adequate manpower and suppression equipment available to contain fires.

This open burning restriction will end when the County has received significant rainfall. If conditions continue to get worse further restrictions may be necessary.

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