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Our part of the Mid-Atlantic region cannot seem to climb out of some level of drought and stay out. Since August of 2023, Rockbridge has gotten dry, then had just enough rain to prevent us from tipping into the “severe” or “extreme” drought designations by the U.S. Drought Monitor. The frustratingly glib “nothing ends a dry spell like a good rain” is just as frustratingly true. For now, our biggest concern is the potential for forest fires.
At this writing, there are no restrictions on open-air burning in Rockbridge. The Virginia Department of Forestry designates Oct. 15 through Dec. 1 as fall fire season in Virginia, a period of time where fall leaf litter and humidity combine to increase the risk of wildland fire.
Unlike the spring fire season, there is no standing restriction on outdoor burning. It is recommended, though, that if burning brush this fall is planned, that the land steward take these four steps. First, check near-term weather conditions and burn when winds are forecast to remain calm. Second, whenever possible, delay ignition of the brush until after 4 p.m. This is when humidity levels usually begin to rise and continue to rise through the evening, reducing the risk of accidental off-target ignitions. Third, always notify the Rockbridge Emergency Operations Center at its non-emergency number, (540) 261-6171, to let them know the location where you are burning brush. This helps our emergency service professionals address concerned callers who see smoke in the distance. Fourth, be mindful of neighbors and, to the extent possible, notify them of your intention to burn brush and minimize disruptions for them.
