Burn restrictions lifted for Cook and Lake Counties, although potential for wildfire remains
Oct 25, 2024 10:17AM ● By Content Editor
Photo: Tim Gouw on Unsplash.com
By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - October 25, 2024
After many weeks, those in Cook and Lake Counties can breathe a small sigh of relief thanks to recent rain and low relative humidity levels. As of the morning of October 25, the Minnesota DNR has lifted all fire bans and burn restrictions in the area. In conjunction with the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Superior National Forest Supervisor Tom Hall has lifted burning restrictions throughout the SNF (some private entities may still have restrictions in place, so it's important to check before lighting a campfire or burning). This includes the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Several previously closed areas due to the Wood Lake and Shell Lake wildfires are now open. Campfires are again permitted in dispersed, remote, backpacking or backcountry areas. Burn permits will once again be issued through the Minnesota DNR as long as current conditions continue.
Currently, the MN DNR has listed all of NE Minnesota as "low" in fire danger. However, a release from the Superior National Forest on October 24 warns that there is still a potential for wildfires and encourages people to be mindful of ignition sources, such as "smoking devices, dragging chains, and recreational vehicles." The SNF also reminds those who choose to have a campfire to make sure it is small and, when putting it out, to ensure it is cold to the touch before leaving. Similarly, Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist, said, “While conditions have improved, fire danger remains a concern with how dry it’s been. At this time of year wildfires can become large and spread rapidly. As leaves fall and vegetation continues to dry out, it’s important for people to be cautious with anything that can cause a spark.”
The SNF warns that "resources [throughout Minnesota] are still limited due to fire and hurricane activity across the U.S."
By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - October 25, 2024
After many weeks, those in Cook and Lake Counties can breathe a small sigh of relief thanks to recent rain and low relative humidity levels. As of the morning of October 25, the Minnesota DNR has lifted all fire bans and burn restrictions in the area. In conjunction with the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Superior National Forest Supervisor Tom Hall has lifted burning restrictions throughout the SNF (some private entities may still have restrictions in place, so it's important to check before lighting a campfire or burning). This includes the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Several previously closed areas due to the Wood Lake and Shell Lake wildfires are now open. Campfires are again permitted in dispersed, remote, backpacking or backcountry areas. Burn permits will once again be issued through the Minnesota DNR as long as current conditions continue.
Currently, the MN DNR has listed all of NE Minnesota as "low" in fire danger. However, a release from the Superior National Forest on October 24 warns that there is still a potential for wildfires and encourages people to be mindful of ignition sources, such as "smoking devices, dragging chains, and recreational vehicles." The SNF also reminds those who choose to have a campfire to make sure it is small and, when putting it out, to ensure it is cold to the touch before leaving. Similarly, Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist, said, “While conditions have improved, fire danger remains a concern with how dry it’s been. At this time of year wildfires can become large and spread rapidly. As leaves fall and vegetation continues to dry out, it’s important for people to be cautious with anything that can cause a spark.”
The SNF warns that "resources [throughout Minnesota] are still limited due to fire and hurricane activity across the U.S."