Burning closed in Whitehall District

From February to April, the Whitehall Volunteer Fire Department responded to 14 wildland fires. To deal with the dry conditions, Fire Chief Joe Granvold recently announced all burning within the Whitehall Fire Department is closed.

Granvold said during those 14 calls they have had to call out the Twin Bridges Department seven times. He added on April 26 they were at a wildland fire on Franich Lane for around nine hours.

"We were really lucky it didn't get any structures," he said. "It's getting pretty serious. That's why we had to shut it down."

When the closure is lifted, Granvold wanted to remind they need to obtain a burn permit with the exception of a campfire at home, adding they are still liable if it first starts in their yard.

He said those interested in getting a permit can visit at https://app.mt.gov/burnpermit/

Permits can be activated online at 1-888-583-6499.

Granvold added they can also be purchased at the Sheriff's Office for $6, although the preferred method is online.

Granvold said the Jefferson-Madison County Extension Office can also help members of the public get a permit. The phone number for the office is 406-287-3282.