BY MARK J. CRAWFORD
In an emergency order Nov. 25, Bradford County joined others in north Florida in declaring a burn ban.
Despite some rain Tuesday, commissioners retroactively approved the order at their Dec. 2 meeting and extended the ban through Dec. 10.
Bradford County Emergency Management shared information showing Bradford County in moderate drought conditions. Suwannee River Water Management District noted September set a record for low rainfall throughout the district, 0.92 inches on average, with 15 rainfall gauges measuring a half inch or less. With an average of less than 0.4 inches of rain districtwide in October, the rainfall deficit climbed to 6.35 inches for the 12-month period ending Oct. 31.
Bradford County Fire Rescue reported responding to multiple brushfires in November, including a 10-acre fire in the northwest of the county that was contained with the assistance of the Florida Forest Service. There was an escaped trash fire on Monday after the burn ban was enacted.
Because of the dry conditions and the potential for wildfires, outdoor burns are prohibited during a burn ban. This includes all outdoor burning: yard trash, barrels, bonfires, fire pits, etc.
Those who see illegal burns taking place are encouraged to report them.
Other counties under burn bans include Alachua, Baker, Citrus, Gilchrist and Union counties.
