In Wisconsin, spring is a common time to see an uptick in wildfire numbers, but this year has been above average. So far in 2025 there have been 227 wildfires reported. That is nearly four and a half times the average of 30 to 50 for this time of year. Jolene Ackerman, the Wildland Urban Program manager with the DNR says the dry winter may be to blame.
“We had a relatively snow-free winter in much of the southern part of the state,” explains Ackerman. “There’s a lot of dry and dead material out there. With the warmer weather people are getting out and doing yard work, including fires.”
Course of Action
A recent fire in Green Lake County burned nearly 750 acres of marsh land. For larger fires like this one the process of fighting it starts with a call. Then depending on the area the fire is detected in the responsible department is engaged. If the fire is in a DNR protected area then they are responsible for the first move on the fire. From there other fire departments may be brought in to help contain the fire. Once the fire is contained some firefighters will stay until the fire is completely gone.
The top cause of fires in the spring is debris burning. This includes anything from burning ditches to burn barrels. Another cause of fires that is seen is those that use wood burning furnaces dump the ashes outside before the embers are entirely out.
Safety
“If you are planning to do a burn, make sure to check the fire danger and get a burn permit from your local DNR or fire department,” says Ackerman.
According to Ackerman the safest way to burn in the spring is to simply not do it. The high winds, dry grass, and dry leaves make for a dangerous combination for burning in the spring. Waiting until the woods and other flora have completely greened up is the safest time to have a fire. Ackerman suggests if you are doing yard work to pile up what you want to burn and put a tarp over it until it is safe.
To act as a deterrent for unsafe burnings Ackerman says, “If you start a wildfire in the state of Wisconsin, even if you don’t intend to, you are responsible for the total cost of putting out the fire and damages.”
If a resident plans to burn this year, the DNR wants to remind them to make sure you have your personal protective gear, a means to control the fire, and a burn permit. Ackerman also says that there are some private contractors with burning experience that can be hired for a safe burn. The DNR reminds residents that when burning, safety is the top priority.
