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Baker County lifts burn ban Baker County lifts burn banBy MELISSA BURNSED The Baker County Board of Commissioners heeded the advice of County Fire Chief Richard Dolan and voted unanimously to rescind the burn ban they had enacted in response to drought conditions just six weeks ago. The City of Macclenny had officially lifted their ban about a week previously. "Richard has spoken with the folks at forestry and they say the burn index is down significantly. The forestry commission has no problem with us lifting the ban," said County Manager Joe Cone during their regular bi-monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 1. Recent heavy rains have significantly improved the dry tinderbox conditions that led to counties all over North Florida imposing the no-burn emergency orders. More than eight inches of rain have been recorded in Baker County over the past month. The danger of wildfires still exists and residents are being urged to use caution with any open flames. The foliage and undergrowth that the recent rains are helping to grow, could become the perfect fuel for fires this summer if drought conditions return. However for now, the lifting of the burn ban is good news for revelers looking to celebrate the three day holiday weekend with fireworks. "This comes just in time for this weekend’s Fourth of July, that should make the citizens of the county happy," commented Commission Chairman Gordon Crews. He added, "Let’s hope they are still very careful, so we don’t have any fires or injuries." |
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