With the lack of snowfall and temperatures on the rise for this week, the Boone County Fire Protection District would like to offer these reminders to the citizens of Boone County who choose to burn during the coming weeks, however we would ask that NO BURNING occur when wind speeds exceed 5-10 mph.

Remember, during the winter months, grasses and weeds either die off or go dormant which means there is no uptake of moisture into the plant during the late winter or early spring and even though we have had some rain this winter and the ground is wet, the weeds and grasses are extremely dry.

Here are a few reminders for everyone to follow:
• If you live in the County there is open burning for natural vegetation. If you live within the city limits of Columbia you will need a burn permit issued by the Columbia Fire Department. Please check with your local municipality for regulations on burning.
• Check local weather forecasts prior to any open burning. Winds can be very sporadic this time of year.
• Winds are typically calmer and humidity is typically higher during the morning hours.
• Be sure to provide a safe barrier around your prescribed burn. This may be ...