The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is putting spring burning restrictions in place starting Monday, March 24.
The restrictions apply to Pine, Kanabec, Chisago, Isanti, and Mille Lacs counties, among others in central Minnesota.
Dry conditions and wildfire risks are cited as the key factors for putting the restrictions in place.
“Wildfire danger is especially high in spring because dormant or dead vegetation from the previous year has dried out and there is no snow protection,” said Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist, in a news release. “Even after precipitation, fine fuels, such as grass and small twigs, can dry out quickly from wind or low relative humidity, making them easy fuel for a wildfire.”
The DNR will not issue permits for open burning of brush or yard waste in those counties until the restrictions are lifted.
Burning restrictions will be adjusted as conditions change.
