With a lack of widespread snow cover, DEC warns to be extra cautious ahead of annual spring burn ban

There have been several past winters where there is still a widespread snowpack this time of year across much of New York State, especially here in the North Country.

But that is just simply not the case for this year, as bare ground is predominate all over and the DEC is concerned that this spring could be a nasty one for when it comes to wildfires.

Since February 26, Forest Rangers have assisted in responding to numerous fires caused by debris burning statewide, including a pair in both Hamilton and Herkimer Counties.

“To date, the winter season has not provided typical snow cover across much of New York State, leaving dormant vegetation from last year’s growing season exposed and susceptible to the daily fluctuations of spring weather,” the DEC said in their weekly Forest Ranger highlights.

Keep in mind, the DEC’s annual spring burn ban takes effect statewide on March 16, but amidst such a lack of snowpack, officials warn residents to be even more cautious of activities that may spark wildfires.

The annual spring burn ban prohibits brush burning to help reduce the risk and spread of wildfires when conditions are heightened.

The burn ban was enacted back in 2009 and has seen success in reducing wildfires statewide, the DEC said.

NYS DEC image.