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Resolution Declaring Drought Emergency and Implementing Ordinance No. 2001-02
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
With the on-going lack of precipitation and increasing temperatures, Hernando County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services (HCFR) has recognized a spike in the number of brush fires. From January 1, 2023, through the authoring of this request, HCFR has responded to 115 brush fires of various sizes and intensities.
The current Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) for Hernando County is 546 (Moderate/High) as of April 3, 2023, which is a 6-point increase over the prior reading with the Florida Fire Service reporting 53 active wildfires across the state. The County is on track to reach severe drought/fire conditions. The highest rating on the scale is 800 (Desert-like conditions).
Conversations with other area fire departments have yielded the following information:
* Pasco County - In process of initiating a ban.
* Citrus County - In process of initiating a ban.
* City of Brooksville - Agreement with HCFR for need of a ban.
* Counties with Burning Bans in place:
o Brevard
o Collier
o Hendry
o Lee
o Orange
o Osceola
o Polk
o Seminole
The Florida Department of Agriculture is forecasting above average temperatures as we move into the driest months (April/May).
HCFR is requesting the implementation of a County-Wide Burn Ban, in accordance with Hernando County Ordinance 2001-02. And as such would apply to all unincorporated areas of Hernando County.
HCFR recommends revaluating the Burn Ban on a 7-day cycle with an automatic canceling of the ban when the KBDI falls to below 400 for a period of 7-days.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no financial impact.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board is authorized to act on this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board adopt the attached resolution to enact the County-wide burn ban which would remain in effect until the KBDI falls below 400 for a period of 7-days...
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