FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 30, 2018
Governor Mary Fallin Reduces Burn Ban to Two Counties
OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today amended the state
burn ban, reducing the number of affected counties from seven to two. Cimarron and Texas
counties remain under the burn ban, according to the amended proclamation.
“I’ve been in constant communication with
Oklahoma Forestry Services as they continue to analyze the dry conditions and
rainfall,” said Fallin. “The recent 6,000-acre fire on Black Mesa just affirms
the need for continuing the ban in counties that haven’t received adequate
rainfall.”
While the governor has the authority
to issue burn bans for multiple counties, county commissioners also issue bans
for their individual counties. There are
currently no county burn bans in effect, but citizens should always check with
local officials or visit here to see if county burn bans are in place before doing any
type of burning.
“Cimarron and Texas counties are
just lagging behind the rest of the state in greening up,” said Oklahoma
Forestry Services Director and State Forester Mark Goeller. “Unfortunately, we are moving into our hot,
dry summer so odds of any improvement continue to diminish.”
Unlawful
activities under the ban include open flames, campfires, bonfires, and setting
fire to trash, grass, woods or other materials outdoors. Gas and charcoal
grilling is allowed provided that it is over a nonflammable surface and at
least five feet from flammable vegetation.
“I
commend Oklahomans for heeding these bans and for calling 911 as soon as they
see or smell smoke,” Fallin said. “Citizens’ actions have made a difference in
the number of fires during this prolonged drought.”
Oklahoma Forestry Services is the
state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For
additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.
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