Countywide Burn Ban Continues

New York is in a crisis as heroic first responders try to extinguish the largest wildfire in the state since 2008.

The Orange County Jennings Creek/Sterling State Park Fire has increased to 5,000 acres destroying precious wildlife and habitat, along with claiming the life of New York State Park Ranger Dariel Vasquez. The 18-year-old tragically lost his life battling the wildfire in Greenwood Lake.

Without question, Rockland has lost a true hero, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fellow Rangers & first responders during this devastating time.

It’s been an abnormally dry fall here in the Hudson Valley igniting a drought watch for over a dozen counties including Rockland. The concerning combination of dry vegetation, low humidity, gusty winds, and the lack of substantial rainfall in recent weeks is a potential disaster if we aren’t careful.

It’s these conditions that sparked my administration to implement a strict County burn ban that went into effect at the beginning of November. That was followed recently by a statewide ban implemented by Governor Kathy Hochul as the Orange County wildfire is only 10 percent contained so far, and not the only one being battled in New York and New Jersey.

My administration’s burn ban applies to all outdoor burning activities, including but not limited to brush, leaves, yard debris, fire pits, and campfires. For now, these activities are restricted to prevent fires from igniting and spreading rapidly in these dangerous conditions. We all know that even a small spark under these dry circumstances can lead to a fast-moving fire.

According to the National Weather Service, people account for 80% of all yearly wildfires in the United States which can be caused by:

*unattended campfires

*discarded cigarettes

*arson

*burning debris

*equipment that causes a spark

Any violation of the Rockland County burn ban is considered a Class B Misdemeanor, which may result in fines and other penalties.

We will continue to monitor weather conditions and lift the ban once it’s deemed safe. Until then, I urge everyone to adhere to these restrictions for the safety of our entire community including wildlife. Updates will be posted on the county website and our social media channels, so please stay informed and let’s work together to prevent fires from threatening our neighborhoods and natural landscapes.

Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to keeping Rockland safe.