09-25-2004, 02:18 AM
Although much of the state received more moisture this year than in 2003, parts of the state are still dry. With that in mind, outdoor enthusiasts are cautioned to be aware of ground conditions while enjoying fall activities.
Conditions around the state vary greatly this year, said Dean Hildebrand, director of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. "North Dakota continues to see drought in the southwest, while other areas have had an abundance of moisture," Hildebrand said. "When traveling to different areas of the state for recreation or hunting, be aware of the fire danger index of the area you are in, and plan activities accordingly."
As summer progresses toward fall, precipitation typically decreases and grasses begin the natural process of dying back. When grasses turn from green to brown, they lose their natural moisture and dry out, thus becoming available as fuel. "This is why between mid-August and the end of October North Dakota experiences approximately half of a year's number of fires and number of acres burned," Hildebrand said. "It can happen all across the state regardless of the amount of moisture received."
Hunters should consider carrying in their vehicles cell phones, shovels, fire extinguishers, extra water and heavy fabric for putting out fires, Hildebrand added. "Hunters have a proven track record of being safe, and can help discover, report and suppress fires started by others," he said.
The daily fire danger index is issued by the National Weather Service to alert the public to conditions that may be conducive to accidental starting or spread of fires. The index can change from day to day depending on temperature, wind and precipitation forecasts. If the index reaches the VERY HIGH or EXTREME category, people are asked to follow the appropriate measures.
Information on current fire danger indexes is available through the NWS internet site at www.crh.noaa.gov/data/BIS/RFDBIS, the game and fish web site at discovernd.com/gnf, or county sheriff's offices.
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Conditions around the state vary greatly this year, said Dean Hildebrand, director of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. "North Dakota continues to see drought in the southwest, while other areas have had an abundance of moisture," Hildebrand said. "When traveling to different areas of the state for recreation or hunting, be aware of the fire danger index of the area you are in, and plan activities accordingly."
As summer progresses toward fall, precipitation typically decreases and grasses begin the natural process of dying back. When grasses turn from green to brown, they lose their natural moisture and dry out, thus becoming available as fuel. "This is why between mid-August and the end of October North Dakota experiences approximately half of a year's number of fires and number of acres burned," Hildebrand said. "It can happen all across the state regardless of the amount of moisture received."
Hunters should consider carrying in their vehicles cell phones, shovels, fire extinguishers, extra water and heavy fabric for putting out fires, Hildebrand added. "Hunters have a proven track record of being safe, and can help discover, report and suppress fires started by others," he said.
The daily fire danger index is issued by the National Weather Service to alert the public to conditions that may be conducive to accidental starting or spread of fires. The index can change from day to day depending on temperature, wind and precipitation forecasts. If the index reaches the VERY HIGH or EXTREME category, people are asked to follow the appropriate measures.
Information on current fire danger indexes is available through the NWS internet site at www.crh.noaa.gov/data/BIS/RFDBIS, the game and fish web site at discovernd.com/gnf, or county sheriff's offices.
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