The Superior National Forest lifted the rest of its campfire ban across the forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness management area on Friday, Sept. 17, as increased rainfall and cooler temperatures decease chances of a fire establishing.
Visitors may now have campfires in all designated grates in both the BWCAW and forest, according to a news release from the Forest Service. Tiki torches, charcoal grills, barbecues and other stoves are also allowed.
However, Minnesota usually experiences several hot and dry days in September that could pose a risk.
"Weather and rain have finally cooperated and the Forest Service feels confident it is safe to fully lift fire restrictions at this time. While the window for fire risk is closing, it’s not entirely shut," Superior National Forest Fire Management Officer Chase Marshall said. "We ask that our visitors practice vigilance and ensure campfires are fully extinguished before leaving them unattended."
Visitors must make sure their fire is fully extinguished before leaving it unattended. The Forest Service also asks people to avoid parking vehicles over tall, dry grass and to avoid using flammable liquids to start a fire in order to minimize the chances of an unwanted fire.
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The Forest Service lifted its ban on campfires at several of its drive-to campgrounds earlier this month.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources lifted its wildfire-related burning restrictions on Wednesday in 14 counties, including St. Louis, Itasca and Koochiching counties. Burning restrictions remain in place in Lake and Cook counties, meaning no campfires are allowed in backcountry and dispersed camping sites on all state, county and private land, and open burning permits are restricted.
