The Marshall County Commissioners took the lead on Monday and placed the county under a burn ban. Since then, the commissioners in five surrounding counties have joined them and issued countywide burn bans due to the dry conditions.
The lack of rainfall has made officials concerned that a single spark could start a fire that could grow out of control in a short period.
The Marshall County Commissioners said they will lift the burn ban when the county receives significant rainfall.
Officials urge you to report burn ban violations to your local law enforcement agency.
Thursday morning the U.S. Drought Monitor update moved Marshall County into “D1” officially in moderate drought.
The burn ban in Marshall County restricts residents and businesses from conducting large burns, including recreational bonfires and debris clearing. Small campfires in controlled rings are currently allowed, but burners are expected to take extra precautions to ensure the fires do not get out of control.
Citizens who see violations of the County’s burn ban should report the violation to the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department.
The other counties with burn bans include Fulton County, Kosciusko County, LaPorte County, Starke County, and Pulaski County.