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Lavaca County keeps burn ban after fire officials warn KBDI remains high
Summary
On Nov. 12 the Lavaca County Commissioners Court voted to keep the countywide burn ban after Tim Decker, speaking for the county fire departments, said Keetch‑Byram Drought Index readings remained in the mid‑600s and recent rain was insufficient to lower fire risk.
The Lavaca County Commissioners Court voted on Nov. 12 to keep the countywide burn ban in effect after fire‑department representatives said drought indicators remain high.
Tim Decker, speaking on behalf of the county’s fire departments, told the court that the Keetch‑Byram Drought Index (KBDI) readings were “in the 6 sixties” and that the most recent update showed a value of “667.” Decker said recent localized rain — in some places roughly a half‑inch to 1½ inches — did not reduce drought conditions enough to lower the county’s fire risk to a comfortable level. “We didn’t get enough to actually bring that number way down below 500 where we’d be comfortable,” he said.
Judge and commissioners discussed safe exceptions and precautions the public may use. The court reiterated that campfires for heat or cooking are allowed but must be controlled; burn barrels may be used if fitted with a screen. Commissioners emphasized protecting volunteer firefighters, noting volunteers are not paid individually for runs and the ban helps reduce dangerous calls.
Precinct 3 moved and Precinct 1 seconded the motion to keep the burn ban; the court voted in favor and the motion passed. The court advised residents to exercise caution with open flames and to consider commercial trash pickup options if needed.
The court will continue to monitor drought conditions and will revisit the ban if substantial rain lowers the KBDI. The next Commissioner’s Court meeting is scheduled for Nov. 25, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.
