Starting April 1st, Pinal County Air Quality will only issue 3-day open burning permits. All permits will expire by May 1st, 2008. Pinal County will suspend the issuance of open burning permits on April 29th, 2008. This year’s more frequent winter rains contributed to wildflower, brush & native plant growth, which will soon dry. The annual cycle of rising temperatures will quickly dry seasonal vegetation, leading to an acute wildfire risk in the desert & upland areas of the County. Wildfires threaten public safety, & the resulting smoke threatens public health.
“The suspension will continue until the summer monsoons arrive and mitigate the dual risks to public safety and public health” says Don Gabrielson, Director of Pinal County’s Air Quality program.
Additional information on the Pinal County Air Quality program can be found at pinalcountyaz.gov or by calling the Pinal County Air Quality Division at (520) 866-6929.