(Valley News Live)— The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is removing Class IV burning restrictions in Cook, Koochiching, Lake, and northern St. Louis counties, as well as the entirety of the George Washington State Forest and Scenic State Park, including portions in Itasca County.
It’s set to take effect on Wednesday, July 29 at 12:01 a.m.
Recent rain has reduced wildfire risk in parts of northeastern Minnesota, though the DNR said the risk has not been eliminated. Class III restrictions remain in place in portions of the area.
What the change allows
Removing Class IV restrictions allows campfires and recreational fires on private land, resorts, and staffed campgrounds, as well as some other previously restricted activities.
Where Class III restrictions remain
Class III burning restrictions remain in place for Cook, Lake, and northern St. Louis counties on non-Tribal lands in the designated areas.
Under Class III restrictions, campfires are not allowed for dispersed, remote, backpacking, or backcountry camping, whether or not a designated fire ring is present. On state lands, campfires are not allowed in state forests — including their campgrounds — state day-use or recreational areas, or backpacking sites in state parks.
Campfires are allowed only in an established fire ring associated with a state park, home, cabin, staffed permanent campground, or resort. No burning of brush or yard waste is allowed. Burning permits will not be issued or activated. No fireworks may be ignited on any public or private land outside city limits. Municipalities determine firework restrictions within their borders.
What officials said
DNR Forestry Division Director Patty Thielen said the agency appreciates the public’s response to the restrictions.
“DNR deeply appreciates the support from Minnesotans during this unprecedented wildfire event,” Thielen said. “Everyone’s efforts to follow wildfire-related restrictions and to stay safe is a huge help to the crews working to suppress the fires.”
DNR wildfire prevention specialist Karen Harrison said conditions have improved but fire danger remains.
“While conditions have improved, we’re not done with fire danger this summer,” Harrison said. “It’s important for people to continue following wildfire prevention tips such as proper campfire safety and using caution when doing outdoor activities that create heat or sparks.”
Federal and Tribal restrictions
The U.S. Forest Service is continuing its full burning ban for the entire Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The DNR’s revised restrictions align with modified restrictions by the U.S. Forest Service elsewhere in the Superior National Forest, as well as those of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa and the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
The DNR said it will continue to monitor conditions and adjust county-specific burning restrictions as necessary. Updated fire danger and burning restriction information is available at www.mndnr.gov/burnrestrictions.
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