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Curry County renews stricter fire-danger restrictions for 45 days after split vote
Summary
The Curry County Commission voted 3–2 to extend a local fire-danger restriction for 45 days, keeping a stricter local wind threshold than the statewide rule; commissioners debated enforcement and the limits of prevention for accidental and arson fires.
The Curry County Commission voted to renew its local fire-danger emergency declaration for 45 days, keeping county-specific burn restrictions that are stricter than the State Forestry Service order.
Fire official Silvers urged the extension at the April 21 meeting, telling the board that local language limits burning in wind conditions over 10 miles per hour and provides an on-site review before approval. "I'm asking you today to renew our county burn resolution for extending it another 45 days," Silvers said, arguing the county rule fills gaps he sees in the state-level guidance.
Commissioners traded sharp questions about effectiveness and enforceability. Commissioner Martin said the previous 45-day restriction did not reduce the number of fires in March and April and questioned whether additional rules would change behavior where accidental or malicious ignitions occur. "These fires are still basically gonna come up because a lot of them are accidental," Martin said.
Supporters said the resolution is a protective measure. The county manager and sheriff's office counsel noted that a local restriction can improve enforcement and community notification. Silvers told the board that local fire departments responded to about 42 calls in March and 72 in April, and that dry conditions have worsened despite recent rains.
The motion to approve Resolution 2026-27 passed on roll call with three votes in favor and two opposed: Commissioner Kane (yes), Chairman Brad Bender (yes), Commissioner Madrid (yes); Commissioner Martin (no), Vice Chairman Leatherwood (no). The board’s action applies county restrictions on open burning that remain tighter than the state standard and requires organizers to coordinate with county officials before burning on windy days.
County staff said the renewal is intended to reduce risk while officials continue public outreach; they also acknowledged the limits of enforcement and the likelihood that not all incidents will be prevented. The resolution extends the county restriction for the stated 45-day period; any further changes will return to the commission.
What’s next: the county will continue public notification of the restriction and coordinate with volunteer fire departments for local oversight. The commission did not alter the state restriction itself; it extended the county’s separate, stricter rule.
