Compared to spring of 2016, when grass and brush in the Pembina Valley remained dry for an extended period prompting numerous burning bans in Winkler and Morden, this year has been better so far.  That from Winkler Fire Chief Richard Paetzold.

Both the Winkler and Morden Fire Departments use a Danger Level Scale of 0 to 4 to determine when burning is allowed
    
Paetzold said rain this week is a welcome sight as the danger level had crept up to 3 in the last week. He said the precipitation will definitely help relax the situation.  "Once things green up then the danger level drops significantly.  But in areas that have long grass, it will take longer for that to occur."

At a Danger Level 3, Paetzold said controlled burning is not allowed, permits will not be issued, and any that were issued prior will be cancelled.  He noted recreational fire pits are still allowed at level 3.  When the scale reaches level four, that is when no burning, including recreational fire pits, are not permitted.

The Winkler and Morden Fire Departments also serve the R.M. of Stanley, so the Danger Level Scale is also used as a guide for them in determining whether they should be doing controlled burns, noted Paezold.  "Within the city, there's no real controlled burning or burning barrels allowed, as the burning by-law states.  But in the R.M. there's usually a lot of material that needs to be burned off in the spring."  

In 2015 the R.M. of Stanley developed a burning by-law and Paezold said the link the R.M.'s the by-law can be found on Winkler Fire Department's website, as well as the current fire danger level for the area.