REGIONAL— If you have spring burning to complete, this will be the weekend to get it done. Burning restrictions go into effect across northern St. Louis and all of Lake, Cook, and Koochiching counties beginning at 6 a.m. on Monday, April 14.
With considerable snow melting expected over the weekend, conditions are likely to be conducive to wildfire in the coming days and weeks. Daytime humidity tends to be especially low during late winter and early spring and with last summer’s dead vegetation now largely exposed, potential for fire is significant, particularly as most of the region remains in moderate drought. Escaped fire from burning vegetative debris is Minnesota’s number one cause of wildfires, and burning restrictions help reduce that risk. 
The DNR will not issue permits for the open burning of brush or yard waste in these counties until restrictions are lifted. 
“People might not realize how easily a fire can accidentally get out of control when it’s dry outside,” said Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist. “By restricting burning during periods of high wildfire risk, we’ve significantly reduced the number of wildfires Minnesota has experienced over the past decade.” 
If people need to dispose of vegetation or yard waste, Harrison said composting, chipping, or taking brush to a collection site are alternatives.
People cause more than 90 percent of wildfires in Minnesota. If a fire rekindles or escapes, the person who set it is liable for any damage caused, as well as for wildfire suppression costs. 
Burning restrictions will be adjusted as conditions change. For more information and daily updates on current fire risk and open burning restrictions, visit the statewide fire danger and burning restrictions page of the DNR website (mndnr.gov/burnrestrictions).