Minnesota DNR expanding Northland burn restrictions

By WDIO

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced that it is expanding its burning restrictions to Koochiching County and northern St. Louis County beginning at 12:01 a.m. Friday, October 11. Burning restrictions will remain in place for Cook and Lake counties.

The following restrictions will be in place on non-tribal land:

• No campfires are allowed for dispersed, remote, backpacking, or backcountry camping on all lands.
• Campfires are allowed only in an established fire ring associated with a home, cabin, permanent campground, or resort.
• No burning of brush or yard waste. Burning permits will not be issued or activated.
• No fireworks may be ignited on any public or private land outside city limits.

*A map showing elevated burning restrictions in four counties in Minnesota: Cook, Koochiching, Lake, and the northern portion of St. Louis counties.* Courtesy of Minnesota DNR.

These burning restrictions will remain in place until removed by the DNR commissioner when its determined thats there has been a significant reduction in fire danger.

“Fall is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but we need the public’s help to keep things safe,” said Karen Harrison, wildfire prevention specialist. “Wildfire risk increases with sustained warm and dry conditions and once they start, wildfires can spread quickly and pose a major risk to life, property, and resources.”

The DNR will continue to monitor and update active conditions.