The Manitoba Wildfire Service said on Tuesday that the recent weather means the province is lifting all vehicle and fire restrictions in parks in southwest Manitoba. The lifted restrictions are for areas including Spruce Woods Provincial Park, Spruce Woods Provincial Forest and surrounding Crown land, the Criddle/Vane Homestead, Turtle Mountain and William Lake provincial parks.
Restrictions were also lifted within the Lauder Sandhills Wildlife Management area within the Municipality of Grassland.
The Municipality of Souris-Glenwood lifted its burn ban, but a burn permit is required for all burning. Backyard fire pits are exempt.
Fire Chief for Boissevain-Morton Municipality, Martin Paradis said the fire ban is temporarily lifted for a week and any fires not in an enclosed container will still require a burn permit be filled out and submitted to the municipal office.
Deloraine-Winchester administration reported that council had yet to discuss lifting the burn ban, but it would be addressed at their next meeting.
Brenda-Waskada have what is called a restricted controlled burning ban and Melita and the Municipality of Two Borders still have a burn ban in effect.
Even though the provincial restrictions have been lifted, people are being reminded that municipal restrictions might still be in place and must be followed.
The province also reminded ATV riders to stay on developed trails and make sure their vehicle has a working spark arrestor, which will help ensure fires are not started.

by DARCI SEMESCHUK, Recorder Staff