Q. I'd like to get a burning permit and I heard that I can apply for one on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' website. Is that true, and what do I need to do?
A. Yes, burning permits are available online through the DNR website at dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/questions.html.
The website provides information on where to get a burning permit, what materials can and cannot be burned, when burning is allowed, and how to activate the permit. Online permits are $5 per year and can be used multiple times. People need to activate their annual permit on the day they plan to burn.
Permits also are available from state and federal forestry offices and local fire wardens. Some cities and counties have more restrictive burning regulations than the DNR regulations, so be sure to check with local government offices.
-- Jean Goad
ADVERTISEMENT
Goad is an information officer with the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center.
Q. The ash trees in my yard are producing a lot of seeds this year, more than in previous years. How unusual is this? Is it weather-related?
A. Trees produce large amounts of seed for a couple of reasons. Trees under stress from drought, soil compaction, or planting "off-site" may produce more seed to ensure another generation. Weather can also impact the number of seeds a tree produces. Ash are wind-pollinated, so if there are heavy rains during flowering, pollen is unable to travel by wind, and seed set and production can be reduced.
In some species of trees, heavy seed production occurs normally every few years.
-- Val Cervenka
Cervenka is a forest health program coordinator with the DNR's Forestry Division.
