Burning permits required in much of area

The state Department of Natural Resources this week issued a reminder that burning permits are now required in all of Menominee County and parts of Shawano County.

DNR Forest Ranger Chrissy Carney, of Keshena, said this year’s traditional wildland fire season got an early start due to the March surge in warmer temperatures.

“The fire season could be more active this year because Wisconsin did not get a lot of snow this past winter, which means less water going into the ground resulting in dry conditions,” she said.

Burning permits are required in DNR protection areas, which include all of Menominee County and the following areas of Shawano County: towns of Almon, Aniwa, Bartelme, Birnamwood, Fairbanks, Germania, Grant, Hutchins, Morris, Red Springs, Seneca, Wescott (north of Curt Black Road, east of state Highway 47 and west to County Road H) and Wittenberg.

Many people are eager to get outside and work hard to clear their properties of leaf litter, brush and pine needles so it looks good and is ready for the growing season.

Warmer temperatures, lower humidity and wind are bad conditions for outdoor burning. Debris burning is Wisconsin’s top cause of wildfires because of weather conditions, according to the DNR.

More than 60 percent of all Wisconsin wildfires each year occur in March, April and May.

According to the DNR, many responsible debris burners obtain permits but neglect to make certain their fire is out before leaving – and fail to return to make sure the ashes are cold. All it takes to spark a wildfire is one hot ember from a property owner’s debris pile to go airborne in the spring breeze.

Instead of burning debris, residents are encouraged to consider composting yard waste or hauling it to a transfer site.

Burning permits are available for free online at dnr.wi.gov (keyword “burn permit”) or by calling 888-947-2876 to have them mailed or emailed. Permits also are available from a local DNR office or designated emergency fire warden.

Penalties exist for anyone found responsible for causing a wildland fire. You could be liable for the costs it takes to suppress a wildland fire and potentially any damages.