Bell County Residents Given the Green Light to Burn After Recent Rains

The burn ban in Bell County is lifted.

Burn Ban Lifted

The burn ban that was in effect in Bell County since February 10th has been lifted effective immediately by Bell County Judge David Blackburn. According to the Bell County website, rain over the weekend is behind the decision to lift the ban on outdoor burning.

Call If You Intend to Burn

According to Bell County officials, Bell County residents are still required to report burns through the Burn Ban phone line (254) 933-5555. Calling is a way to make sure the rules around burning are being followed and if gives the local fire department a heads up that someone is burning.

The Original Ban

Following a weekend of wildfires a week ago, Bell County Judge David Blackburn issued an Emergency Burn Ban after thirty fires were reported. Half that number was reported the previous week. Emergency Management Coordinator Bob Reinhard told Fox44 that additional support was given by McLennon, Falls, and Williamson Counties.

What Factors Determine the Need for a Burn Ban?

According to Judge Blackburn, “The decision to issue an emergency burn ban order is always based on several factors, including a state-generated drought index measure for our county.” He said the conditions on the ground in Bell County also factor into the decision. In this case, it was a major increase in grass fires in Bell County. The recommendation from the Emergency Management office also factored into the decision.

The Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI)

The Texas A&M Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) is a tool used to determine forest fire potential. The drought index is based on a daily water balance comprised of rainfall and soil moisture. The drought index ranges from 0 to 800. 0 equals moist soil and low fire risk. The higher the number, the dryer the soil and the higher the fire risk. According to Fox44, Bell County has an average KBDI score of 271. Even though that score is not extremely high, OEM Coordinator Reinhard says even though the ground is still moist from the ice storm, the frigid temperatures from the storm have dried out the vegetation.

What Activities are Prohibited During a Burn Ban?

During burn bans, residents living in the unincorporated area of Bell County cannot burn anything outside. Welding and cooking on barbeque pits is allowed. Violating the burn ban is a Class C Misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.