ON-AIR SEGMENT: New York State DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton gives remarks from 2026 Spring Burn Ban press conference

On Monday, March 23, 2026, New York State DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton joined North Country News and shared remarks highlighted from this year's Spring Burn Ban Press Conference, which was held at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, NY.

“Many of us are looking forward to spring weather after a very cold winter, but with the warming temperatures comes increased fire risk,” Commissioner Lefton said. 

“That’s why we’re once again asking all New Yorkers to abide by the two-month-long burn ban. The more careful you are with fire, the better we can protect our communities and natural resources as well as our Forest Rangers and firefighters across the state.”

Each spring since 2009, the DEC enacts a statewide burn ban, which prohibits residential brush burning beginning March 16 through May 14, with aims of preventing wildfires and protect communities and first responders during heightened conditions for wildfires.

According to Commissioner Lefton, open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in New York State. When temperatures warm and the past fall's debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily, further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation.

During the annual burn ban, fire pits and campfires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length, width, or diameter are still allowed, as are small cooking fires.

As a reminder, only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated, or unpainted wood can be burned. People should never leave these fires unattended and must extinguish them.

Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State.

Be sure to listen here:

New York State DEC image.