Admist Wildfires, Governor Ivey Issues Statewide No Burn Order

With concern over rising wildfires in Alabama, Governor Kay Ivey has recently issued a no-burn order for the state.

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On Wednesday, Governor Ivey issued a statewide ‘No Burn Order.’ She signed a statewide Drought Emergency Declaration which prohibits all outdoor burning in Alabama according to the Alabama Forestry Commission.

This order is effective November 9, 2023, at 8:00 a.m. Central Standard Time.

“Alabama is currently experiencing extremely dry conditions, which greatly increases the potential for dangerous wildfire activity. State Forester Rick Oates and his team have been working around the clock to keep our forests safe and fires contained, and I commend them for their efforts to protect Alabamians, our homes, and our wildlife,” said Governor Ivey. “This declaration is meant to prevent unnecessary burning, reducing the chance of avoidable fires. I urge Alabamians to heed this warning.”

Since the statewide Fire Alert was issued on October 24, AFC firefighters have responded to 352 wildfires that have burned 3,199 acres across the state.

Tuesday, there was a large wildfire in the Brookwood area. Michelle Barnett, a spokesperson for the Alabama Forestry Commission, said their early estimate is that this wildfire has affected between 80 and 100 acres and consumed multiple structures.

The Drought Emergency Declaration order will remain in effect until rescinded by the State Forester, at which time conditions will have changed sufficiently to reduce the occurrence and frequency of wildfires. To report persons burning in violation of this law, contact your local law enforcement. For more information on the current wildfire situation in the state, visit Alabama www.forestry.alabama.gov.