MN DNR is lifting open fire restrictions in the Arrowhead area

After three weeks of restrictions on open fires, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has lifted the bans. At 12:01 a.m. on October 25, restrictions on open fires were lifted.

In a press release from the MN DNR, they wrote that recent rain and humidity were the reason for the change. Guidelines for fires on public and private lands now return to normal permitting rules. In the press release, the DNR stated: “This action removes restrictions on state and private lands, including those on campfires in remote, remote, backpacking or backcountry areas; burning brushwood or garden waste; and the use of fireworks outside city limits. While campfires are now permitted, anything larger will, as always, require a burning permit. Activation of burn permits will be managed based on local conditions.”

According to the DNR statement, the lifting of the bans is consistent with U.S. Forest Service actions for the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, as well as the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and Bois Forte Band of Chippewa tribal nations lifting restrictions Governments and authorities.

Restrictions may be lifted, but the DNR warns people not to consider the risk of fire hazards. The statement said: “While the 8- to 14-day outlook released by the National Weather Service shows positive signs of increased chances of precipitation in northeastern Minnesota, people are urged to remain vigilant as fire danger increases in some warm areas or windy temperatures can change quickly. Days.”

Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist, stated in the news release, “This time of year, wildfires can become large and spread quickly. As leaves fall and vegetation continues to dry out, it is important that people remain cautious about anything that can cause a spark.”

Recent rainfall in Arrowhead has reduced the fire danger to a “low” rating for Cook and Lake counties and part of St. Louis County. The southern part of the state remains at high fire risk.