BROOKINGS, & YANKTON, S.D.(KJJQ & WNAX)- The Brookings County Commission Tuesday declared a fire danger emergency, prohibiting open burning until further notice.

All open burning without a permit is now prohibited.

There have been a few small grass fires in the county this spring.  Brookings Fire Chief Pete Bolzer says they’re trying to be proactive and put the burn ban in place before they have any major fires.

Bolzer says he can’t recall such a windy spring. Plus, it’s every bit as dry as last year.

Recreational fires in backyard fire pits are still allowed but Bolzer urges caution.

The ban is in effect until it’s rescinded by the commission.

The Yankton County Commission has again imposed a burn ban.

Emergency Manager Paul Scherschligt met with the commission Tuesday night.

Scherschligt says it’s too dry for any type of fires right now.

Scherschligt says conditions have been changing day to day.

About two inches of precipitation have been measured in Yankton since last November first.