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Northwoods Appears In U.S. Drought Monitor, Fire Danger Increasing

NPS.gov

While southern Wisconsin residents have had plenty of rainfall recently, the northern half of Wisconsin and Minnesota have shown up on theU.S. Drought Monitor this week. That means an increased chance of wildfire.

The time just after the snow leaves and the forest floor greens up is considered a danger point for wildfire. This is especially true when spring rains are infrequent, like the past few weeks in the Northwoods.

68 fires burned 141 acres in DNR Protection Areas with the largest blaze in Bayfield county termed the "White River Fire" where 42 acres burned. That fire was started by a campfire. The main fire causes were debris burning, vehicle exhaust, sparks from tow chains dragging and farming equipment. Property owners are reminded to remain present when burning debris in a barrel or on the ground – should your fire escape, you can be held responsible for the cost of fire suppression and any damages resulting from the escaped fire. Clear an area around the pile or barrel and make sure a hose is attached to a working spigot. Wet down the burned area before leaving.

The DNR says  aware of the current fire danger for your area by checking the DNR website: dnr.wi.gov, keyword “fire”.

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