Gray County's grassfire history belongs beside the current burn-ban map

In February 2006, the Interstate-40 Fire burned over all 1,449 acres of McClellan Creek National Grassland. The fire as a whole covered about 750,000 acres, far beyond the federal tract. Tree loss reshaped the grassland. The event is history; the practical question is what the grass, wind, and county order are doing now.

Texas A&M Forest Service publishes a statewide burn-ban map, but the county order controls. Under Texas Local Government Code Section 352.081, the commissioners court may restrict outdoor burning in all or part of the unincorporated county after the required drought determination. It may also act when burning would worsen a public-safety hazard.

The map is the quick statewide check. When an order is in force, its text supplies the effective dates, covered area, and exceptions. Do not rely on an old screenshot or assume the same order applies inside a city.

Dry grass can also catch from ordinary equipment. Keep trailer chains from dragging, and do not park or idle over tall, dry grass. Before welding or grinding, clear and wet the work area, avoid dry or windy days, and keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby.