Logan County commissioners to consider countywide burn ban Thursday

The Logan County Board of County Commissioners will consider implementing a countywide burn ban during an emergency meeting on Thursday afternoon.

If approved, the ban would remain in effect for up to 14 days.

The meeting is scheduled for 1 p.m. inside the Logan County Administration Building.

According to the Oklahoma Forestry Services, 22 counties across the state are currently under burn bans, including neighboring Oklahoma County.

If enacted, the burn ban would make it unlawful for any person to set fire to any forest, grass, range, crop, or other wildlands. The restriction would also prohibit campfires, bonfires, and the burning of trash or other materials that could spark a wildfire.

Dry conditions continue to be a concern across Logan County. The U.S. Drought Monitor reports the northern portion of the county is in extreme drought, while southern areas are classified under severe drought conditions.

Rainfall totals have remained limited, with just 0.61 inches recorded over the past 30 days and 1.29 inches over the past 60 days.

Forecasts show no significant rain chances through the remainder of the week, with the next opportunity for precipitation not expected for at least another 10 days.

There are several exceptions to a county burn ban under specific conditions.

Welding, cutting torch, and grinding activities are permitted if conducted over a non-combustible surface at least 10 feet by 10 feet, with welding blankets or screens covering nearby flammable vegetation. Wind speeds must be below 10 mph, and a separate fire watch must be present with access to pressurized water or a fire extinguisher.

Outdoor cooking is allowed using propane or natural gas grills, provided the grill is placed on a non-flammable surface and at least five feet away from any flammable vegetation.

Agricultural burning is also permitted but must follow guidelines set by the Oklahoma Forestry Services. Individuals must have an approved burn plan on hand for the duration of the controlled burn.

Violations of a burn ban can be enforced by any law enforcement officer in the state. Those found in violation may face a misdemeanor charge, punishable by a fine of up to $500, up to one year in jail, or both.

Before issuing a burn ban, the Logan County Board of County Commissioners must determine that extreme fire danger exists. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this includes moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions and a forecast of no more than half an inch of rain over the next three days.

Additionally, either fire activity must be above normal for the season, or a significant number of wildfires must be linked to escaped debris or controlled burns.