Be Careful When Burning Plant Debris

The Department of Natural Resources reminds Minnesotans to be careful this fall when burning plant debris. Linda Gormanson, DNR wildfire prevention supervisor says 98% of all wildfires in Minnesota are caused by humans burning debris like leaves, grass and brush. Burning permits are required to burn plant debris when there is less than 3 inches of snow on the ground. Citizens should know the burning restrictions for their county, and check the weather forecast, before lighting a fire. Permits may be restricted when weather conditions allow wildfires to easily spread. Gormanson recommends finding alternatives to burning plant debris such as mulching or composting. If it is not possible to mulch or compost, people should put debris fires out by drowning the remains with plenty of water, stirring and repeating until cold. All fires should be supervised until they are out cold. Information on statewide fire danger and burning restrictions is available on the DNR website.