WHAT: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation experts will discuss the annual statewide ban prohibiting residential brush burning that begins March 16 and runs through May 14. Since 2009, DEC enforces the annual brush burning ban to prevent wildfires and protect communities during heightened conditions for wildfires each spring. 

WHEN:       Thursday, March 9, 11:00 a.m.

WHERE:     Albany Pine Bush Preserve Discovery Center

195 New Karner Rd #1, Albany, NY 12205

OVERVIEW: Even though some areas of the state remain blanketed in snow, warming temperatures can quickly cause wildfire conditions to arise. Open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in New York State. When temperatures warm and the past fall's debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily, further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation. Each year, DEC Forest Rangers extinguish dozens of wildfires that burn hundreds of acres. In addition, local fire departments, many of which are staffed by volunteers, all too often have to leave their jobs and families to respond to wildfires caused by illegal debris fires.

VISUALS: Firefighting equipment used by Forest Rangers. Attached are pictures of fires from earlier this year.