BRUNSWICK COUNTY — After the recent wildfire in Shallotte, the county requested the state issue a burn ban, citing concerns over the water shortage and drought. However, the county announced Wednesday evening the request was denied.
According to the announcement, Fire Marshal Andrew Thompson reached out to the state to request a countywide burn ban after the parts of the county fell under exceptional drought conditions, which is the highest tier or most severe classification under the U.S. Drought Monitor. After the request was placed, the Quarry Road fire broke out, further emphasizing request’s importance. Countywide burn bans can only be implemented by the state
The request was denied due to the North Carolina Forest Service’s review of the potential fuels like vegetation, moisture content, and dryness of said fuels in the county. In a press release, the information and education branch head of the North Carolina Forest Service, Christie Adams, said that while droughts are being monitored across the state, fire risks remain low to moderate across the board.
READ MORE: Shallotte fire origin ruled as lightning strike, county remains in ‘exceptional’ drought
“We are extremely disappointed and frustrated that our request has been rejected despite the significant fire risks and drought conditions we are facing here,” Brunswick County Commissioner Chair Mike Forte said. “It appears that these factors coupled with the recent wildfire are not enough to warrant a state burn ban for Brunswick County.”
The county already issued a burn ban for its unincorporated areas on June 9, but it only includes fires within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling.
“Even though we disagree with their decision, we appreciate the Forest Service taking the time to meet with county staff and consider our request,” Forte added in the press release. “While we respect that they have certain processes to making these decisions, we do not feel the decision reflects the sentiment of the Commissioners or many members of the community concerning our current fire risk.”
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