Despite Rainfall, Burning Ban Remains in Effect in Washington County

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources removed the burning and campfire restrictions in many counties across greater Minnesota, but a burning ban remains in effect for Washington County.

Although much of Minnesota received precipitation sufficient to lower the chances of fires starting and spreading, soil moisture is still well below normal and should a fire start, there is a chance peat soils could ignite, according to the DNR.

Fall weekends bring many people outdoors to recreate, including hunters, campers, and others who want to have campfires.

But the DNR is urging everyone to use extreme caution where campfires are allowed, keeping them to no larger than three feet high by three feet wide. Charcoal fires are allowed at this time, but they should not be left unattended.

The DNR also encourages people to make sure fires are completely out before leaving. People are responsible for costs to extinguish a fire if it gets away.

Fire conditions change quickly. Click here for more information, maps, and fire conditions from the DNR.