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With all of the rain — yay! — we’ve been having, the trees look awesomely healthy and several readers have asked about burning. If you are in doubt about any of the following guidelines, call your local authorities to verify your concern. Legal guidelines are set forth by the county and cities in which you reside.
OUTDOOR BURNING
Because of recent rains, many folks living outside of the city limits have started burning brush piles. We’ve put together the steps that should be taken and the favorable conditions necessary for prescribed burns.
Prescribed burns begin with a prescription and plan. If you are considering a prescribed burn, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality says to notify the Texas A&M Forest Service first for any controlled burns that are intended for forest management. You should also contact your local agent.
Before you begin your burn, contact your local sheriff’s office as well. They will ask for your name, number, and address. Local office contact numbers are: Burnet County 512-756-8080, Llano County 325-247-5767, and Blanco County 830-868-7104.
Although rain is an indicator, it is not the only variable to consider when judging whether or not to burn.
Others include:
- Wind speed. According to the TCEQ, winds shouldn’t be less than 6 mph and not more than 23 mph.
- Time of day. Outdoor burning should start after sunrise and be finished before sunset.
- Observation. Never leave the fire unattended.
- Tools on hand. Make sure you have water, shovel, soil, and a means to control the fire.
- Site preparation. Clear, by mowing or grading, at least a 6-foot circle around your burn pile.
- Content. A burn pile should only consist of brush, trimmings, untreated wood, or paper products. Black smoke means there is something in the pile that shouldn’t be there.
- Location. Don’t burn close to the road. The smoke could be a hazard to drivers.
- Habitat. If your brush pile has been sitting for awhile, a mother mammal or avian could be using it as a home. Double check before you light.
NO BURNING ON RED FLAG DAYS
Red Flag Days are defined by the National Weather Service: “A Red Flag Warning means warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger."
For more information on Red Flag Days, call 830-629-0130 or visit the NWS webpage.
Till next time. Keep your souls and soles in your garden!
Remember the True Master Gardener: Jesus said, “I am the vine; my Father is the Gardener.” John 15:1
Call Bill Luedecke at The Luedecke Group Realtors at 512-577-1463 or email him at bill@texasland.net. Contact Martelle Luedecke at 512-769-3179 or luedeckephotography@gmail.com.
