Eastern Kentucky fires burn woodlands, property

Contact: Diana Olszowy 502-564-4496

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 3, 2006) – The spring forest fire season began officially on Feb. 15, bringing a ban on outdoor burning within 150 feet of a woodland or brushland from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. 

Dry, windy conditions in eastern Kentucky contributed to fires that destroyed at least two homes and vehicles in Leslie County.  “We are at least an inch behind on rainfall this spring,” said Chuck Wilburn, district forester of the Kentucky Division of Forestry office in Morehead.  “When the sun comes out and the winds pick up, low moisture can really make wildland fire conditions erratic and potentially dangerous.  I am proud of the hard work our fire crews have been putting in on these fires.” 

This year, 526 fires have burned more than 13,716 acres in Kentucky. In comparison, 1,710 fires burned about 51,580 acres in 2005. Sixty percent were arson fires. 

The high level of wildland arson prompted the division to request targeted high visibility law enforcement. Targeted patrols will take place in eastern Kentucky, led by Kentucky State Police and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

“I encourage the public to be vigilant in helping us combat wildland arson,” said Leah MacSwords, director of the Kentucky Division of Forestry.  “With their help, we can help protect one of Kentucky’s most valuable natural resources – our forests.”  Citizens are encouraged to call the Target Arson Hotline at 1-800-27-ARSON, any local law enforcement agency, or the division about suspected arson. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Weather conditions should be considered before outdoor burning. Check with your local fire department, the Kentucky Division for Air Quality and the Kentucky Division of Waste Management to ensure compliance with regulations. Burning of household trash other than uncoated paper products is illegal.