The Renville County Sheriff’s Office has announced that as of October 13th, 2011, the burning ban that was put into effect on October 3, 2011 has been lifted for Renville County.

Because of the recent rainfall over the past few days, conditions have improved. As of 10-13-2011, Renville County still has a Minnesota DNR fire danger rating of “moderate”, which is upgraded from our previous “very high” rating. Moderate fire danger means that fires start easily and spread at a moderate rate. Fires can start from most accidental causes, but with the exception of lightning fires in some areas, the number of starts is generally low. Fires in open-cured grassland will burn briskly and spread rapidly on windy days. Woods fires spread slowly to moderately fast. The average fire is of moderate intensity, although heavy concentrations of fuel may burn hot. Short-distance spotting may occur, but is not persistent. Fires are not likely to become serious, and control is relatively easy (www.dnr.state.mn.us).

Burning permits are again available at the Renville County License Bureau and any burning permits issued prior to the burning ban remain valid and their use may be resumed.

In light of the burning ban being lifted, residents are asked to use caution and common sense before lighting fires. Because different areas of Renville County received varying amounts of rainfall, conditions in a specific area may not as favorable as others. Please be mindful of burning conditions in your area, which includes wind speed and direction and presence of standing crops or other combustible materials.

Any questions can be directed to the Renville County Sheriff’s Office at (320) 523-1161.