June 28, 2006 - Drought Index and Burn Ban Update

Today, the Florida Division of Forestry adjusted its drought index readings statewide. Instead of today's initial reading of 637 for St. Lucie County, the drought index is 535. The new reading does not change the information that the County issued earlier this week. The St. Lucie County Fire District, in partnership with St. Lucie County, the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office, the Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie Police Departments and the Florida Division of Forestry, will only issue permits for the fireworks displays scheduled for Tradition Field (Port St. Lucie) on Saturday, July 1 and the Cities of Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie on Tuesday, July 4. Even if the drought index continues to drop, no changes to the burn ban will occur until the Wildfire Task Force Committee meets on Monday, July 3 at 8 a.m.

The three permitted displays will allow the public to enjoy the special holiday activity under controlled circumstances. The Fire District, along with the Division of Forestry, will have equipment and manpower at each of the three permitted displays to ensure the safety of patrons and surrounding areas. The St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office, in coordination with the Port St. Lucie and Fort Pierce Police Departments, will have "zero tolerance" for individuals who do not comply with the ban on personal fireworks displays. If individuals are caught lighting illegal fireworks, they may be issued a citation, their fireworks will be confiscated and they are subject to arrest.

A countywide burn ban, with the exception of Division of Forestry permitted agriculture and land clearing burns, is still in effect. No burning of yard trash or any personal fireworks is allowed until further notice. Additionally, lawn watering restrictions for unincorporated St. Lucie County Utilities customers is still in place. No irrigation is allowed between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The St. Lucie County Fire District will continue its task force response to all brush fires.

For more information regarding the fireworks display in Fort Pierce, call Main Street Fort Pierce at (772) 466-3880; in Port St. Lucie, call the City at (772) 871-5219 and for Tradition Field, call (772) 871-2100.

Other contact information: St. Lucie County Fire District (772) 462-8300; St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office (772) 462-7300; Fort Pierce Police Department (772) 461-3820; Port St. Lucie Police Department (772) 871-5000; Division of Forestry (863) 462-5163.