Burn ban and air quality advisory in Franklin County lifted

Update: Air quality conditions in the county have improved. The Department of Environmental Quality has lifted the burn ban and says air quality has improved but is still in the moderate range.

Original story: The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality has placed a ban on wood burning in Franklin County because of air quality concerns.

Due to elevated pollutant levels and a stagnant atmosphere, local residential wood burning ordinances have been activated.

The ban means residential wood burning activities are restricted to certified or exempt stoves only. Outdoor Open Burning is also prohibited while the ordinances are in effect.

These burn bans will remain in effect until air quality has improved.

People who have an inherent sensitivity to increased particulate levels are encouraged to avoid prolonged physical exertion outside. At these levels there is an increasing likelihood of respiratory symptoms and increased aggravation of asthma and/or lung ailments.