After heavy rains this spring caused extensive flooding in Butte County, now heat is rapidly drying out the abundant ground cover that sprouted after the abundant moisture.

To reduce fire risks, the Butte County Commission has banned open burning in the county. Butte County Emergency Manager Scott Jensen sought the order on behalf of the county's five fire districts.

This is the seventh summer for a countywide ban on burning, including slash piles, irrigation ditches and household garbage. Only campfires in designated fire pits or grills within the boundaries of commercial, state, or federal campgrounds are permitted.

Typically, the burn ban runs until early fall; Jensen will consult with the Butte County Fire Protection Association then for a recommendation to the commissioners.

For more information, fire district contacts are: Nisland/Arpan Chief Randy Vallery, Vale Chief Mike Grubl, Belle Fourche Chief Mark Hespe, Castle Rock Chief Clay Olson and Newell Chief Phil Thornhill.