Burn season about to begin

The Superior Ranger District has announced that open burning season has begun. The season opened on Tuesday, March 1, and will continue through April 30. During this period, burn permits will not be required for burning that is conducted.

The “burn permit season” will begin on May 1, which is considered the start of the fire season for the state of Montana. After May 1, it is required that those wishing to do any type of burning acquire a permit from the ranger district.

Of course, burning is only one way to dispose of your debris. Things to consider before you burn include:

•     Could the material be composted?

•     Could the material be chipped and utilized?

•     Could the material be hauled away?

•     Will I be home all day so I can tend to my burn until it goes out?

•     Do I have neighbors who are asthmatic or have difficulty breathing and may be ill affected by the smoke if I burn my debris?

•     Before burning, be sure to check the air quality hotline at 1-800-225-6779, or online at www.smokemu.org. Follow the recommendations for air shed #3A east of Superior, or air shed #2 west of Superior.

•     Burn only natural vegetation and woody materials. State law prohibits the burning of animal droppings, garbage, old mattresses, stained or painted wood, dead animals, tires, oil or any other toxic material.

Remember, once you strike the match you are responsible for making sure your debris burn doesn’t escape your control.  It is important to consider the following safety factors when burning:

•     Burn in small piles so the fire will be hot but manageable.

•     Wait until it rains or snows.

•     Wet down the area around piles.

•     Clear the area around piles of dry flammable material and have bare soil for several feet.

•     Build piles in openings away from overhead branches, wires, and structures.

•     Keep water and tools close by, be ready in case of sudden changes in the fire.

•     Check the weather forecast for unexpected weather conditions. If burning conditions are not favorable, it is always best to wait until conditions improve.

•     Don’t burn when windy conditions are forecast.

•     Check your fire to be sure that it is dead out.

If you have any questions about burning, contact the Superior Ranger District at 822-4233, or stop by the district office at 209 West Riverside in Superior.