Burning restrictions are in effect today for many north-central Minnesota counties.
Southern and eastern portions of Beltrami and all of Cass and Hubbard counties will not be permitted to burn yard waste.
In addition, no fireworks may be ignited on any public or private land outside city limits, and campfires are only allowed inside an established fire ring.
Local cities may have additional burning restrictions, and city of Bemidji officials confirmed that they will follow the DNR’s rules on fireworks and campfires.
The burning restrictions will remain in effect until terminated by the DNR Commissioner. Fire prevention supervisor Casey McCoy says that while residents and visitors may see plenty of green vegetation, “unusually hot and dry conditions have increased the risk of wildfires. One unintentional spark in these conditions could result in thousands of charred acres and property damage.”
Fire danger is likely to remain high into next month, due to little precipitation and more warm weather in the forecast.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect for many Minnesota counties further south through 8 this evening.
Fire crews began battling a wildfire southeast of Big Fork at Scenic State Park last night.
The 10-acre blaze at last report is 50 percent contained.
