Wildfire burning restrictions lifted

Continued favorable weather has lessened wildfire risk for much of northern Minnesota. In response, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is removing fire restrictions in 14 counties. Only Cook and Lake counties are still under Class III burning restrictions, meaning no campfires except attended fires at a home, cabin, campground or resort in those two counties.

According to DNR acting wildfire prevention supervisor Allissa Reynolds, the change reflects “reduced wildfire risks for much of the north, while also recognizing that wildfire danger remains high in Cook and Lake counties.”

“Until we have a few inches of snow on the ground, we all need to continue our efforts to reduce wildfires; fires can start easily in dry grass and leaves,” Reynolds, said

The DNR will continue to monitor conditions and adjust county-specific burning restrictions as necessary. It said the top concern is protecting Minnesotans, firefighters, and resource managers.