STATE OF MARYLAND RESCINDS STATE OPEN-AIR BURN BAN

State of MD - The statewide ban on open-air burning imposed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources has been rescinded following an assessment of weather and ground conditions. This measure was taken to help prevent the proliferation of wildfires across Maryland.

The ban was implemented in response to an unusually high number of wildfires statewide in October due to persistent dry conditions throughout the year.

However, with recent precipitation and predictions of regular weather patterns for this period, the Maryland Forest Service has deduced that the blanket restriction is no longer necessary.

Maryland Forest Service State Fire Supervisor Chris Robertson praised Marylanders for their cooperation during the ban, which helped significantly decrease the emergence of new wildfires since its implementation on Nov. 1.

Emphasizing the ban's instrumental role in minimizing damage over the last few weeks, Robertson thanked the public for their patience and expressed relief at being able to safely lift the restriction.

Even so, the state continues to grapple with drought conditions, and landowners are cautioned to avoid outdoor burning if feasible. If absolutely necessary, extreme caution is advised. It's also important to note that local burn restrictions predating the statewide ban might still be in effect-residents must verify with local authorities.

Throughout the burn ban, the combined efforts of Maryland Forest Service firefighters and partnering agencies tackled 33 fires, which affected around 48 acres - nearly double the ten-year average for November.

In contrast, October saw 50 wildfires that consumed an estimated 117.8 acres before the ban. The joint fire suppression efforts, aided by public cooperation during the ban, kept average wildland fires to only 2.1 acres this fall.

Homeowners are encouraged to prepare for risky periods by adhering to Maryland Firewise principles.