Spring burning restrictions began in Cook, Koochiching, Lake, Lake of the Woods and northern St. Louis counties Monday, April 14.
Restrictions began for most of the rest of Northern Minnesota the week before.
The Department of Natural Resources said it will not issue permits for open burning of brush or yard waste until the restrictions are lifted.
Fire risk is expected to rise as warm and dry weather increases. Escaped fire from vegetative debris is Minnesota’s No. 1 cause of wildfires, according to the DNR.

The agency suggested composting, chipping or taking brush to a collection site if you need to dispose of yard waste.
Small campfires and fires in approved burners are permitted from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m., so long as there is 5 feet of clear space around the base of the fire or burner.
Burning restrictions will be updated as conditions change. For the latest information, check the DNR's website.
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Plus: The Minnesota PCA will host an informational meeting on permitting and variance requests from US Steel's Keetac Mine in Virginia on Sept. 3; and Wadena drivers can expect major traffic changes as Highway 10 opens and work starts on Highway 71.
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During the Phenology Report for the week of Aug. 26, 2025, Staff Phenologist John Latimer covers the Common Nighthawk migration and late summer wildflowers.
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