On Monday, May 1, fire season officially began and burn permits will be required for all outdoor burning in Mineral County. Burn permits are available from the Superior Ranger District by calling 822-4233/822-3933 or by stopping by the District office at 209 West Riverside in Superior.

There is no charge for the permit and it may be mailed to you upon your request. Call early in the week if you would like to have your permit mailed out, allowing it to arrive by the weekend. Burn permits are issued by the Superior Ranger District as partners with local and state agencies. The State of Montana and local county government regulate outdoor burning on private land.

Burning is only one way to dispose of debris. Things to consider before you burn:

- Could the material be composted?

- Could the material be chipped and utilized?

- Could the material be hauled away?

- Do I have neighbors who are asthmatic or have difficult breathing and may be affected badly by the smoke if I burn my debris?

- What is the weather forecast for the day and days to follow?

- Are windy conditions forecasted?

- Will I be home all day so I can tend to my burn until it goes out?

BURNING CAN be hazardous. Some safety factors to consider when burning:

- Before burning check the air quality hotline at 1-800-225-6779, or online at www.smokemu.org. Follow the recommendations for airshed #3A east and south of Superior, or airshed #2 west of Superior;

- Burn in small piles so the fire will be hot but manageable;

- Wet down the area around the piles;

- Clear the area around the pile of dry flammable material and have bare soil within several feet;

- Build piles in openings away from overhead branches, wires, and structures;

- Keep water and tools close by, be ready for sudden changes in the fire;

- Check the forecast for unexpected weather conditions;

- Don’t burn when windy;

- Always stay with your burn until it is out.

If burning conditions are not favorable, it is always best to wait until conditions improve. Please burn only natural vegetation and woody materials. State law prohibits the burning of painted wood, plastic, garbage, dead animals, tires, oil, or any other toxic material.

For more information, call the Superior Ranger District at 406-822-4233.