News Releases for May 2005
May 5, 2005
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Hoeven Calls For Increased Wildfire Vigilance
New Bill Enables Counties To Enforce Local Burning Bans
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today called on North Dakotans to exercise extra vigilance regarding wildfires in light of continued dry conditions in the state. The Governor issued an ongoing drought disaster and rural fire emergency proclamation in March. Hoeven also cited a new state law enabling counties to declare an open burning ban, effective August 1, 2005.
Fire conditions will be variable on a day-to-day basis, requiring all citizens and land users to pay attention to daily weather conditions and fire danger warnings.
“Cooler conditions during the last few weeks have delayed the greening of foliage around our state, so there’s a chance of wildfires occurring into May,” Hoeven said. “Until the state greens up, all North Dakotans will have to be vigilant with their outdoor activities.”
In addition, the 59th Legislative Assembly recently passed an amendment to the North Dakota Disaster Act that allows local governments to issue a ban on open burning through an order or proclamation. Individuals who willfully violate the ban may be subject to criminal prosecution under the new law.
Once the new law takes effect, North Dakotans are urged to check with local authorities to determine whether a ban is in place before doing any open burning, including trash burning, agricultural burning, or having open campfires. Residents should also consult the daily Rangeland Fire Danger Index before burning. The index is on the web at www.crh.noaa.gov/data/BIS/RFDBIS. Guidelines regarding safe fire practices can be found in the North Dakota Rural Fire Danger Guide.
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