The D-N-R will test pilot a new program this year in at least nine northern counties. Residents currently need to apply for an annual permit to burn approved materials in barrels but apply separately for the yard waste burning permit. But the program will allow property owners to apply for one season-long burning permit to burn yard
Area forestry leader Steve Courtney says residents can apply for the free permits at D-N-R service centers, ranger stations or from emergency fire wardens.
D-N-R officials hope the program reduces the number of debris-caused fires. The pilot program will be available in Florence, Forest, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Marinette, Oconto, Oneida and Vilas counties.
WSAU's Matt Lehman contributed this story