As warm and dry weather continues to spread throughout the state, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has added more northern Minnesota counties to the burn restriction list, which now includes Carlton, south St. Louis, Pine, Wright and Aitkin counties in the Pine Knot News coverage area.

The state will not issue burning permits for brush or yard waste in these counties until the restrictions are lifted.

“Warm and dry conditions are key factors for wildfires, so we have to remain vigilant about restricting open burning,” said Casey McCoy, DNR fire prevention supervisor. “The...