Bastrop County extends burn ban

Outdoor burning remains prohibited in unincorporated Bastrop County as dry conditions and elevated fire risks persist.

A closer look

Bastrop County Commissioners Court extended the Aug. 24 emergency order for two more weeks during its Sept. 14 meeting.

Emergency Management Coordinator James Altgelt said the county's average Keech-Byram Drought Index, or KBDI, reached 660, with a 14-day countywide average of about 663.

The KBDI scale ranges from 0-800. The Texas A&M Forest Service reports that any level above 400 indicates an increased potential for wildfires.

For reference, the KBDI on Sept. 4, 2011, the day the Bastrop County Complex Fire ignited, was 789.

What you should know

Bastrop County outlined the following enforcement measures when suspected outdoor burning is reported:

• Fire departments may respond to put out the fire

• A peace officer can be sent to investigate

• Violators could face a Class C misdemeanor and a fine of up to $500

The burn ban will expire Sept. 28 at midnight unless Commissioners extend it or lift it early.