Last week’s hot temperatures and windy conditions factored into the Lane Fire Defense Board and Oregon Department of Forestry’s decision to temporarily close the outdoor burn season.
They have decided that the recent rain and forecasted precipitation help reduce fire risk enough to reopen the burn season.
Although burn season as reopened, residents must check the rules and the daily advisory before burning. Different areas in Lane County have different rules, with some cities like Eugene and Florence banning outdoor burning entirely within their city limits. The advisory is online: www.lrapa.org or call the burn line: 541-726-3976.
“The current fire risk is down but we always encourage residents to look for alternative ways to get rid of their yard debris,” said Lane Regional Air Protection Agency spokesperson, Jo Niehaus. “Chipping, composting, and hauling the debris away will help reduce smoke and fire danger.”
Outdoor burning season will officially close on June 1st for Oakridge and Lowell and June 15th for other areas in Lane County unless heightened fire danger closes the season early.
The Lane Regional Air Protection Agency reminds residents that violation of outdoor burning rules can result in stiff fines. Burning in barrels is illegal in Lane County year-round and garbage burning is illegal throughout Oregon.
For information about the Lane County Fire Defense Board decision and fire danger, please contact Lane Fire Defense Board’s Chief Chad Minter at 541-686-1573.
For more information about local air quality, visit www.lrapa.org or call LRAPA at (541) 736-1056 or find us on Facebook and Twitter @LaneRegionalAir.