Burn season in Grand Junction runs from March 1 to April 30, and while controlled burns have their advantages, they also come with risks. The Grand Junction Fire Department (GJFD) has already responded to two agricultural burns that got out of control, highlighting the importance of proper safety measures.
The Benefits and Risks of Controlled Burns
Controlled burns play a significant role in land management across western Colorado. According to GJFD Community Outreach Specialist Dirk Clingman, these fires provide several benefits.
- They help clear fields for planting and development.
- They eliminate vegetative waste that could fuel wildfires in the future.
However, burns can quickly become hazardous if precautions aren’t taken. Some of the most common causes of uncontrolled burns include high winds, proximity to combustible materials, and inadequate personnel overseeing the fire.
How to Prevent Fires from Spreading
GJFD emphasizes that following proper guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of a burn getting out of hand.
“The simplest way is that you are required to be 50 feet from anything combustible, be it a fence line of your neighbor or a structure on your own property or your neighbor’s structures,” said Clingman.
He also stressed the importance of checking weather conditions before starting a burn. Dry and windy days can make fires unpredictable, leading to dangerous situations.
Signs a Burn Might Be Out of Control
For those who spot an agricultural burn, there are ways to assess whether it poses a threat:
- Lighter smoke typically indicates organic materials, such as grass or leaves, are burning.
- Darker smoke may signal that man-made materials are involved, which can be hazardous.
If a fire appears to be spreading or seems unsafe, GJFD urges residents to report it immediately.
Permits Required for Burning
In Grand Junction, a permit is required for controlled burns. These can be obtained online or in person at Mesa County Public Health.
Officials remind residents that following regulations not only helps maintain safety but also ensures that controlled burns provide their intended benefits without unnecessary risks.
