Fire risks increase with dry conditions

With a drier winter and the lack of rain recently, fire conditions have deteriorated in east-central Minnesota.

Pine County Sheriff Jeff Nelson spoke on the conditions during Thursday’s sheriff’s report, saying, “we’ve continued to have some brush fires, grass fires, and some structure fires as well.” 

Nelson concluded by saying, “You can still have campfires, but make sure to do it right.”

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources,475 wildfires have been reported statewide since April 1.

DNR burning restrictions are still in place for Pine, Kanabec, Isanti, Chisago, and Mille Lacs counties.

Fire chief: Burn ban ordered in Grantsburg

Grantsburg Fire Chief Cory Barnette has ordered a burn ban in the village until further notice.

According to the Grantsburg Police Department, the ban also extends to the townships of Anderson, West Marshland, Wood River, and Grantsburg.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has reported elevated fire danger this week.

On Tuesday, the Pine County Sheriff’s Office reported that the DNR conducted a 1,5000 acre prescribed burn six miles northeast of Grantsburg.