DNR lifts burning restrictions in Cook, Lake counties

Recent rain and a return of near-normal temperatures and higher evening humidity have greatly reduced the chance of campfires or open burning causing a wildfire in Cook and Lake counties.

In response, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is removing the burning restrictions in those counties, starting at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday. These are the last two counties under DNR-mandated burning restrictions.

These changes reflect reduced wildfire risk in these counties and across the state. With fall traditionally being a dry time in Minnesota, fires can start easily in dry grass and leaves. Minnesotans are encouraged to stay alert and keep up to speed with the statewide fire conditions and burning restrictions.

"Minnesotans’ efforts in following burning restrictions, combined with firefighters’ rapid and sustained suppression response, has helped Minnesota through this unprecedented wildfire season with limited property losses and no injuries. Thank you, and let’s keep it up through the fall," Forrest Boe, Director of the DNR’s Forestry Division, said in praising Minnesotans for their efforts.

The DNR will continue to monitor conditions and will reinstate county-specific burning restrictions if necessary.