Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced on March 30, that no open air burning will be permitted on any public land managed by the agency, excluding land in Garrett County.
St. Mary’s County folowed up with a ban on open burning on all county-owned property.
“In light of current wildfire conditions across the state, the projected dry weather forecast, and after careful deliberation, we have decided to ban open air burning on DNR public lands only, with the exception of Garrett County,” said Secretary C. Ronald Franks. “As stewards of Maryland’s public lands, these precautions are necessary to ensure the public’s safety and protect our natural resources.”
The ban will impact all State Parks, State Forests, Wildlife Management Areas and other public lands managed by DNR. The ban will remain in effect until Maryland Forest Service officials determine that sufficient precipitation has been received across the state to reduce the wildfire threat. This policy bans campfires and charcoal grilling, however permits the use of propane grills for cooking.
The agency has also issued a request that residents voluntarily refrain from open burning on privately owned land.
Under the authority granted by Annotated Code of Maryland, Natural Resources Article Title 5-720, this action is based on the following justification:
– There has been near record level of wildfires occurring across the state in March. The Forest Service has responded to 352 wildfires this month already, more than two and half times the 20-year average of 130 wildfires for the entire month of March.
– March precipitation levels are near record lows for all of Maryland except Garrett County.
– The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center outlook for the next 8 – 14 day period is for continued much below normal precipitation and much above normal temperatures, which will compound the current precipitation deficits.
– Increased visitation of DNR lands prompted by warm, dry conditions leads to an increase in the fire-start potential from public activities.
To determine whether a specific site is managed by the department, citizens may visit the DNR website at www.dnr.maryland.gov.