Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary J. Charles Fox has reminded citizens that the open-air burning ban directed by Governor Parris N. Glendening Aug. 27 remains in effect, despite recent rainfall.
Recent rains have done little to ease the long-term effects of the drought. The ban applies to all open air burning within 200 feet of woodland and activities adjacent to or within an area where flammable materials could ignite and carry fire to woodland in all counties excluding Garrett County. This ban does not apply to small recreational fires such as campfires or barbeques, nor does it apply inside the limits of incorporated towns.
As a result of this open-air burning ban, the State Forest and Park Service has banned campfires within all of the State Forests and Parks, with the exception of Assateague State Park and State Forest and Parks in Garrett County.
This ban will remain in effect until the Maryland DNR Forest Service determines that sufficient precipitation has been received across the state to reduce the threat of wildfires.
Year-to-date, Maryland DNR Forest Service has responded to 695 fires that have burned over 4,600 acres of forest, marsh, and fields.
Posted: 9-23-2002
