Wildfire Season Starting Early DNR Advises Homeowners

Homes Near Undeveloped Wildlands or Open Spaces At Higher Risk According to MN DNR

DULUTH, Minn. — With warmer temperatures and little snow this winter, the DNR says the potential for wildfires will be high this year. In the last two and a half weeks, the DNR has responded to 77 wildfires covering over 4,500 acres. That’s over half the acres covered by wildfires in all of last year.

Wildfire season typically starts in late March, This year, the DNR is predicting above normal wildland fire potential already in most of Minnesota and northern Wisconsin. With wildfire season starting early, the DNR says its important for everyone to work together to not just prevent wildfires, but also reduce risks to homes and cabins.

The DNR Firewise program advises preventative measures such as landscaping with rock instead of mulch, cleaning gutters, and trimming low-hanging branches.

“As we look ahead, we can kind of predict or look at what we might be seeing in terms of fire danger,” said Wildlife Prevention Specialist Karen Harrison. “What we can’t do is predict how many wildfires there’re going to be or how large they’re going to be. So that’s when it really comes down to human behavior and the choices that we’re making when we’re working outside, when we’re recreating outside. And so please, let’s work together to help prevent wildfires this season.

According to the DNR, over ninety percent of wildfires are caused by humans. One of the most common causes is vegetative debris burning. When starting your spring yard projects, the DNR said its vital to have the correct permits and avoid burning in warm, dry, and windy conditions.

More information: DNR Wildland Fire Page