The fishing streams are at a surprising low and clear state, and it’s getting dry in the fields and woods out there right now — like every year at this time. Wildfires commonly occur in the spring during dry and windy conditions, and open burning is the single greatest cause of wildfires in New York state. A statewide burn ban is in effect until May 14. Open burning of brush, tree limbs and branches is prohibited. Backyard fire pits, small cooking fires, and small campfires are still okay, but these can never be left unattended. We must pay attention if these are on your family backyard menu. It always starts small.

Open burning is the single greatest cause of wildfires in NYS. DEC is asking everyone to please be careful, especially if you’re heading to the Catskills or the Adirondacks. To report a wildfire, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264) or contact a forest ranger in your area — https://dec.ny.gov/about/contact-us/forest-ranger-rosters. If you plan a fire, always check for fire danger in your area on DEC’s online map that is updated every week (https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/wildfires/fire-danger-map). Also, DEC says that local governments may have stricter rules than NYS as a whole; your fire department will have information about local burning laws. To be safe and to be sure, pick up your phone and call if you’re planning to strike a match burn with tinder and trees close to your home.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

March 29: NY Hunter Education, Springville Field/Stream, 8900 Chaise Road, Springville, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., register online: https://www.register-ed.com/events/register/224954; Free, must complete homework prior to class.

April 1: Opening Day for NYS Inland Trout Season

NOTE: Send Calendar info or related outdoor news to forrestfisher35@yahoo.com.