Monday, the Barton County Commission signed a resolution declaring a state of local disaster emergency. This proclamation states that due to extremely dry weather conditions an extreme fire hazard exists in Barton County. Effective at 12:01 p.m. Monday, open trash burning, campfires, and all open fires are prohibited.
There were several fires in Barton County during the last week, Barton County Emergency Risk Manager Amy Miller told the commission Monday morning. Two fires were in wheat stubble, one fire was started by a combine in an uncut wheat field, and one fire was started by a individual illegally burning trash. Grass, standing wheat, and wheat stubble continue to be dry and present a fire danger throughout the county.
“It’s a very explosive fire situation out there,” said Albert Fire Chief Charles Keller. His department has been on several mutual-aide calls and “that stretches our resources to the limit.”
The county falls within moderate drought conditions as listed by the U.S. Drought Monitor. But, Keller said even an inch of rain won’t be enough to turn things around.
“It’s still dry and it’s still dangerous,” agreed Communications Director Doug Hubbard.
Miller said any questions concerning local burning, should be directed to the fire chief having jurisdiction of the area where the burning is to take place. The fire chief may or may not issue an agricultural burning permit.
Violation of this state of emergency may result in fines of up to $2500.
This state of emergency will be in force until noon June 18. At that time it may be extended if weather conditions do not improve.