DNR burn ban lifted; local ban remains

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced Monday that the statewide burn ban on DNR-protected lands, that had been extended twice, would expire Monday night (October 15) at midnight. Also, Naneum Ridge State Forest was set to open at midnight, as fire danger caused by the Table Mountain fire was reduced by recent rainfall and moderating temperatures.

“My thanks to the public for their help and restraint during a difficult and prolonged fire season,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark. “The summer’s fires could have been worse, but the public did everything they could to prevent wildfires.”

Lifting the statewide burn ban does not prevent local authorities from putting in place burn restrictions at the local level. Potential burners and the public at large are reminded to check with those local authorities before burning. Odessa Fire Chief Don Strebeck has opted not to lift the burn ban yet for the town of Odessa. Despite the recent rains, accompanying winds can quickly dry everything out again. Strebeck will place a notice in The Record when the local burn ban is to be lifted.

For local activities on DNR-protected lands, outdoor burning information can be found at http://fortress.wa.gov/dnr/firedanger/BurnRisk.aspx.

Also, industrial forest operations on DNR-protected lands are still being regulated under the requirements of the Industrial Fire Precaution Level system. Individuals involved in forest operations will need to check for and follow restrictions as they apply to the area in which they intend to work. Information on restrictions can be found at: http://www.dnr.wa.gov/RecreationEducation/Topics/FireBurningRegulations/Pages/rp_fire_ifpl.aspx.aspx.