State Fire Marshal Reminds Tennesseans of Danger Posed by Dry Weather
November 7, 2016
Nashville, TN – With dry conditions, low water levels, and little to no precipitation forecast throughout most of Tennessee for the foreseeable future, the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) reminds Tennesseans to make fire prevention and fire safety a top priority this fall.
“Drought conditions are increasing the threat of wildfires in Tennessee counties, specifically those in the eastern portion of the state,” said State Fire Marshal and Commerce & Insurance Commissioner Julie Mix McPeak. “We urge Tennesseans to heed any burn bans currently activated in their community. By employing just a few basic fire safety precautions, the public can help prevent the devastating loss of life and property.”
Tennessee State Parks Lift Temporary Ban on Backcountry Campfires
July 18, 2012
Nashville, TN – The Tennessee State Parks system has lifted a temporary ban on backcountry campfires in state parks, which was put into place June 29th, 2012, due to dry weather conditions and the potential for wildfire hazards.
The announcement is consistent with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s recent action to lift some of the county burn bans throughout the state. For an up-to-date list of the Department of Agriculture’s current county-by-county fire bans, please visit www.burnsafetn.org . [Read more]
Tennessee Department of Agriculture says Despite Wilting Weather, some Great Produce still “Hot” at Local Markets
July 12, 2012
Nashville, TN – It’s been hot, lately. Have you noticed? Tennessee’s crops have noticed, too, hit with a deadly combination of record heat and drought conditions. In such widespread and long lasting situations, many summer fruits and vegetables stop growing and stop producing blossoms or fruits, even if the plant survives.
After an early and auspicious start, Tennessee’s sweet corn has all vanished at local farm markets. Other crops anticipated for later in the season, like melons, may never make much of an appearance at all. [Read more]
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Urges Voluntary Water Conservation Measures
July 7, 2012
Maintaining Adequate Water Supply is an Issue of Both Supply and Demand
Nashville, TN – As hot, dry conditions continue across the state, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation is asking communities to be mindful of their water-usage practices and to adhere to any voluntary or mandatory water conservation requests made by local utility districts.
Private water well users also are encouraged to conserve water and have a plan of action in place as drought conditions persist. [Read more]
County Burn Ban Impacts Land Between the Lakes
July 1, 2012
Golden Pond, KY – Due to heightened fire danger with hot, dry weather forecast for the foreseeable future and the recent burn ban for Trigg County, Kentucky, Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area’s Area Supervisor just signed a temporary closure order prohibiting open fires anywhere on the Forest except in metal campfire rings in developed campgrounds only, effective immediately. [Read more]
Tennessee State Parks Temporarily Ban Backcountry Campfires
June 30, 2012
Nashville, TN – The Tennessee State Parks system is issuing a temporary ban on backcountry campfires in all state parks due to dry weather conditions that could increase the potential for wildfire hazards. The backcountry campfire ban is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice.
In coordination with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Division of Forestry efforts, this burn ban serves as an additional measure to ensure the safety of campers and to protect the parks’ forested areas. Campers will still be able to build campfires and use charcoal to cook their meals, as long as they are inside an appropriate fire ring or designated grill area in designated campground facilities (not in backcountry areas). [Read more]
Management Urges Campfire Caution at Land Between The Lakes
June 28, 2012
Golden Pond, KY – Visitors to Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area are advised to use extra caution with open campfires.
Due to extreme drought conditions, high temperatures, and low relative humidity, an increased risk for wildfires exists, especially in backcountry camping areas where dry grass, woody debris, and leaves surround campers. [Read more]
Tennessee Forestry Division issues Fire Advisory due to Hot, Dry Conditions
June 28, 2012
State Officials Urge Citizens to Delay Burning Debris, Leave Fireworks to Professionals
Nashville, TN – Tennessee State officials are urging citizens to take fire precautions for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry is asking the public to refrain from debris burning until significant precipitation is received and to avoid other activities that could cause fire.
“Most areas of the state are experiencing very hot and dry conditions with low humidity,” State Forester Steven Scott said. “While permits are not currently required for open, outdoor burning, as a precaution we’re urging citizens to avoid debris burning until conditions improve.” [Read more]
Tennessee State Parks Temporarily Ban Backcountry Campfires
October 10, 2010
Nashville, TN – The Tennessee State Parks system is issuing a temporary ban on backcountry campfires in all state parks due to dry weather conditions increasing wildfire hazards. The backcountry campfire ban is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice.
In coordination with the Department of Agriculture’s Division of Forestry, this burn ban serves as an additional measure to ensure the safety of campers and to protect the parks’ forested areas. Campers will still be able to build campfires and use charcoal to cook their meals, as long as they are inside an appropriate fire ring or designated grill area.
“Dry weather has impacted the entire state, especially in West Tennessee and areas along the border of Middle and East Tennessee,” said Assistant Commissioner for Tennessee State Parks Mike Carlton. “Humidity is very low and with fronts bringing high winds, we want to take every precaution necessary to protect people and land.” [Read more]
