Rain allows for easing of some wildfire-related restrictions

The latest drought update showed a little relief from the rain in central and southern parts of the state with some previously extreme areas downgraded to severe and some previously severe areas downgraded to moderate.

With cautious optimism, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is adjusting some wildfire-related restrictions due to improved field conditions. While a large portion of the state remains in drought conditions, recent rain events have decreased, though not eliminated, wildfire risk in northern and central Minnesota.

As of September 3, this new direction replaces this season’s previous DNR restrictions on burning, dispersed, and backcountry camping and mechanized activities with new burning restrictions that are more limited in both scope and geographic extent.

The new Class III restrictions affect 15 counties including Wadena and Otter Tail. Under these restrictions:

No campfires are allowed for dispersed, remote, or backcountry camping on all state, county, or private lands. Camping stoves are permitted. Attended campfires in established fire rings associated with a home, cabin, campground, or resort are allowed. No fireworks may be ignited on any public or private land outside city limits. People should check with their local community for any additional restrictions. Open burning permits are restricted. . .

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