Safe alternatives to burning amidst fire safety burn ban

Starting July 13 and lasting through September 30, Thurston County has enforced a seasonal fire safety burn ban.

To help residents manage yard waste without burning, here are some of the Olympic Region Clean Air Agency (ORCAA)’s recommended alternatives:

1. Composting - Creating a home compost pile can turn yard waste into rich soil additives, reducing the need for store-bought fertilizers. This natural compost can be used in gardens to enhance soil quality and promote healthy plants.
2. Chipping/Grinding - Large wood debris can be processed with a chipper. Renting a chipper or organizing a neighborhood chipping event can produce wood chips that can be composted or used as ground cover around flower beds.
3. Curbside Organics Bin - LeMay Enterprises offers curbside organics/yard waste services throughout Thurston County. Residents can sign up for service by calling their contact number at (360) 923-0111 or, for those in the City of Olympia, calling (360) 753-8368. More information is available on the Food Plus Organics Recycling webpage.
4. Yard Debris Drop-Off Site - Residents can also drop off yard debris at the Waste and Recovery Center located at 2418 Hogum Bay Road NE, Lacey, WA 98516.

The annual burn ban, organized by the Thurston County Residential Outdoor Burning Committee, aims to reduce fire hazards during the dry summer months.

The Committee includes representatives from Thurston County, the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR), local fire agencies, and ORCAA.

For additional details on outdoor burning rules within Thurston County, visit the Outdoor Burning page on ORCAA’s website.