Ban in effect until May 14
The state Department of Environmental Conservation has banned burning leaves and other yard debris through May 14. Once warmer temperatures dry out leaves and debris on the ground, wildfires can easily start from burning piles and are difficult to contain because of wind and lack of vegetation.
Since implementing the spring ban in 2009, the DEC has recorded a nearly 40 percent drop in seasonal wildfires. For more information or to report a violation, visit dec.ny.gov.
I am hard-pressed to understand why burning of leaves at any time of the year is allowed. It should be banned completely. Most municipalities ban or at least discourage the incendiary practice due to air pollution. Towns should offer curbside pickup of leaves, which can then be turned into composite.