MONTPELIER – The statewide order banning outdoor burning was lifted on October 24 by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR). Town Forest Fire Wardens may once again issue burn permits throughout Vermont.
Recent rainfall has helped reduce wildfire danger across Vermont. The U.S. Drought Monitor reports that much of the state remains in extreme or severe drought; however, the wildland fire danger forecast has dropped to Moderate statewide following more than two inches of precipitation in recent days.
“The recent rainfall has provided much-needed relief, saturating small, easy-to-burn fuels and thereby reducing the risk of wildfire,” said FPR Forest Fire Supervisor Dan Dillner. “This welcome precipitation follows nearly two months of dry weather, drought conditions, and higher than normal wildland fire activity throughout the state, primarily caused by escaped debris burns or unattended campfires.”
With the statewide debris burn ban lifted, Town Forest Fire Wardens once again have the authority to issue fire kindling permits. However, wardens may still restrict permit issuance based on local and daily conditions.
“Although the debris burn ban has been lifted, we continue to urge Vermonters to use great caution when burning debris or enjoying campfires,” said FPR Commissioner Danielle Fitzko.
The current fire danger forecast is available at fpr.vermont.gov/forest/wildland-fire/monitoring-fire-danger
