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Salesville Today
By the People, for the People
Multiple Counties Across Arkansas Issue Burn Bans
Hot and dry conditions prompt fire safety measures in several regions
Mar. 23, 2026 at 10:10pm
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Due to hot and dry weather conditions, multiple counties and municipalities in northern Arkansas have issued burn bans as of Monday. The affected areas include Marion, Boone, Newton, Searcy, Fulton, Izard, and Sharp Counties, as well as the City of Salesville in Baxter County. Officials cited the high wildfire danger in the region as the reason for the bans, which prohibit open burning to prevent accidental fires.
Why it matters
Burn bans are an important fire prevention measure during periods of extreme drought and heat, which can increase the risk of wildfires that threaten homes, businesses, and natural habitats. The widespread nature of these bans across northern Arkansas highlights the severity of the current conditions in the region.
The details
The burn bans were issued by local county judges and fire departments over the past few days. Izard County Judge Eric Smith noted that the county does not want to have to charge anyone for violating the ban, urging residents to avoid open burning to keep the community safe. Boone County Judge Tyler Gentry said the decision was made after consulting with the County Fire Coordinator, Office of Emergency Management, and the Forestry Commission.
- The burn bans went into effect as of Monday, March 23rd at Noon.
- Izard County issued its burn ban on Sunday, March 22nd.
- Boone County issued its burn ban on Sunday, March 22nd as well.
The players
Eric Smith
The Izard County Judge who placed the county under a burn ban, citing the need to keep the community safe.
Tyler Gentry
The Boone County Judge who issued a burn ban after consulting with local emergency and forestry officials.
Salesville Fire Department
The fire department that issued a burn ban for all incorporated areas within the City of Salesville due to the unseasonal weather conditions.
Arkansas Forestry Division
The state agency that has declared a high wildfire danger across northern Arkansas.
What they’re saying
“We do not want to have to charge anyone under this statute, so please help us keep our community safe and do not burn during this time.”
— Eric Smith, Izard County Judge
“The decision was made after speaking with the County Fire Coordinator, Office of Emergency Management, and the Forestry Commission.”
— Tyler Gentry, Boone County Judge
What’s next
Officials will continue to monitor weather conditions and wildfire risk in the coming days, and may extend or expand the burn bans if necessary.
The takeaway
These widespread burn bans underscore the seriousness of the drought and fire danger facing northern Arkansas communities. Residents are urged to heed the restrictions and take extra precautions to prevent accidental fires that could quickly spread out of control.
