Autumn is here and while many of us are enjoying the leaves changing and the brisk fall air the Department of Natural Resources has a reminder for everyone so we can keep enjoying the outdoors.

The DNR urges people to use caution while burning vegetative debris this season. This includes leaves, grass and brush. DNR wildfire prevention supervisor Linda Gormanson says, “In Minnesota, 98 percent of all wildfires are caused by people.”

Burning permits are required to burn vegetative debris when there is less than 3 inches of snow on the ground.

The DNR does recommend mulching or composting as an alternative to burning.