By Scout Nelson
North Dakota has stepped up its game in fire management and safety. The state's Department of Emergency Services, together with the North Dakota Forest Service, has introduced a new Burn Restrictions Map.
This innovative tool is designed to cut through the confusion of the old system, providing one-stop access to vital burn information for everyone from farmers to casual visitors.
Launched on the Forest Service website, this interactive map shows daily fire restrictions across various jurisdictions like counties and tribal lands.
It's all about making life easier and safer for people who need to manage fires, whether for farming, recreation, or other activities.
Beth Hill, from the North Dakota Forest Service, explained how the old system required navigating through three different websites to gather necessary information, leading to confusion and frustration. The new system consolidates all that info into one place.
Users can now simply enter their address or use their mobile device's location feature to see any restrictions affecting them directly.
Darin Hanson of the NDDES highlighted how the previous confusion often led to unnecessary calls and reports from the public. The update not only makes understanding restrictions straightforward but also aligns with recent legislative changes, replacing the term "burn bans" with "burn restrictions" for clarity.
It's important to note that local emergency managers are not obliged to report their restrictions through this system, and city-specific ordinances might differ. For the most accurate and localized information, contacting local fire departments or emergency managers is recommended.
To explore the new map and get the latest on safe burning practices in North Dakota, visit NDResponse.gov/Burn. This tool represents a significant step forward in the state's ongoing efforts to ensure fire safety and manage natural resources responsibly.
Photo Credit -gettyimages-paul-hartley
Categories: North Dakota, Rural Lifestyle