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The Town of Hunter has implemented a five-day outdoor burn ban due to severe drought conditions and the heightened risk of wildfires. The ban, which began Sunday morning (September 21), prohibits all outdoor burning activities, including yard trash, bonfires, campfires, and outdoor fireplaces. Exceptions are made for cooking food on contained gas or charcoal grills and firefighter training.
Town Supervisor Sean Mahoney declared a state of emergency, citing the need to protect public safety and conserve emergency resources. Mahoney explained that the region has experienced an extreme drought, with minimal rain throughout the summer, leading to low water levels and dry creeks. "We’re in an extremely rural and forested area," Mahoney told NEWS10.
The emergency order, in accordance with New York State Executive Law, allows local authorities to take necessary actions to ensure community safety. The ban is set to expire five days from its start date, but the state of emergency will remain in effect until October 21. The decision aims to mitigate the risk of wildfires during the current dry weather conditions and address the limited availability of first responders and resources to combat potential fires.
The Town of Hunter urges residents to comply with the ban to help prevent wildfires and protect the community. This marks the second consecutive year the town has enacted such measures due to drought conditions.