In God We Trust FREE U.S. Postage Paid Hydro, OK Permit #3 Zip Code 73048 BOXHOLDER February 7-13, 2018 • 10040 Hwy 54 • Weatherford • (580) 772-5939 • email:
[email protected] • www.westokweekly.com • Vol. 4 No. 6 Burn ban in place to combat increasing wildfire occurrence Chase Wright Staff Writer A burn ban is in effect in western Oklahoma. On January 30th, KFOR News Channel 4 reported that 40 counties are under a governor’s burn ban, issued by Governor Mary Fallin, until February 16th. Also, four counties in eastern Oklahoma are under county commissioner-issued bans. Burn bans aren’t taken lightly, and it’s up to residents living in these counties to help ensure that all regulations are followed during a ban. But what is a burn ban? Burn bans are, simply, a ban on burning. However, there are some nuances between the two types of burn bans and the circumstances they cover. The Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) has very detailed information on burn bans on their website, along with a FAQ section and an up-to-date map of burn ban counties. The OFS was established to protect “trees and forests [that] provide clean air…water, wildlife habitat, and… [recreation].” They’re dedicated to conserving, managing, and protecting the forests of Oklahoma, and they are responsible for identifying fire threats and providing (See Burn Ban, Page 4) Basetkball playoffs begin for local schools Mike Hammett Wright Wradio Sports Director Postseason play begins this week in high school basketball for the Class A and B schools around the state.