Extreme Dry Weather Is Reason For Burn Ban Now in Benton

The light rain we received in parts of the area over the weekend was of little aid as our area continues to suffer through an extreme drought. Even that slight precipitation couldn't stop the wheels that Mother Nature had already set in motion.

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And with those wheels in motion have come the preventative measures in the form of burn bans.

After last week's declarations of burn bans in both Desoto and Webster parishes, it was expected that other areas would follow.

That is now the case as on Friday, February 11, Benton Fire District #4 became the latest to issue such a burn ban for the area.

Effective immediately upon the declaration by Fire Chief J.T. Wallace, the open flame burn ban was issued due to the high fire danger caused by severe drought conditions throughout the area.

According to the Bossier Parish Police Jury,

Fire Dist. #4 jurisdiction covers the town of Benton and the surrounding area, beginning at the northern city limit of Bossier City and extending north to LA Hwy. 160; from the Red River to the Midway community.

In a statement from Fire Chief Wallace we read, "The drought, coupled with roadway improvements currently underway within the district, has created a unique hazard to our community.”

The burn ban calls for an immediate cease to all outdoor open flame burning until further notice.

Persons who may have questions concerning the ban is urged to call the fire district at 318-965-9454