Kodiak Island’s burn suspension lifted

Kodiak Island’s burn suspension was put in place on May 10 for all types of burning that required a permit – like burn barrels and brush pile burning. 

It was lifted Mon., May 23, according to Alaska’s Department of Natural Resources, thanks to this weekend’s cooler, wet weather. The burn suspension will remain in place for the Kenai Peninsula, which hasn’t seen as much precipitation. Outdoor campfires less than 3 feet in diameter were not affected by the burn suspension.

Sam Harrel is an information officer with the Alaska Department of Forestry. He said Kodiak residents should still keep an eye on the weather and exercise caution heading into the long weekend. 

“We’re coming into the holiday weekend. I’m not quite clear on the extended forecast for Kodiak, but in a lot of other places we’re gonna warm up, and little chance of rain,” said Harrel.

Kodiak will also see warm dry weather, according to the current forecast. Burn permits are available online or through the fire department. Although, Harrell said residents should check in with local fire officials about fire conditions the day they’re planning a burn.