Burn permits needed come April 1

Starting April 1, residents are required to have burn permits when burning debris. Even so the upper valley still has snow on the ground, spring is the season when wild fires can start and spread.

This was the case last week in Palmer. On March 24, the season’s first wildland fire statewide flared up when a landowner burned debris and flames jumped to log decks and saw dust piles. The Palmer fire department responded and put out the fire, which damaged approximately 0.4 acres.

Local fire captain Tim Morgan says he wants residents to be aware that although there is still snow on the ground here in Talkeetna, the lower valley sees very dry conditions, where wildfires can start and spread.

From Thursday on, burn permits are required for all burning other than fires contained within an approved device, and fires used for signaling, cooking or warming. The permits are available for pickup at local fire stations. Morgan says to read and follow the guidelines and to call the burn hot line prior to burning to find out whether burning is allowed that day or not. If dry or windy conditions prevail, burning may be suspended.

In addition, Morgan reminds people to be present and watch their fires, have a water hose ready just in case and to be mindful when burning debris in the dry spring season. To educate local residents more on becoming “fire-wise” the Talkeetna fire department plans to hold presentations during Earth Day in late April at their booth.