Fires and Fireworks

One of the primary concerns of NSEA residents is fire safety. The last beach fire was April 2018 and no one wants to go through that again. Thankfully, the fire was detected early, no one was hurt, and damage was limited to melted siding, burned stairs, and other minor property damage. 
 
Dune grass or beach grass is a native species that is very important in holding sand in place and trapping blowing sand. However, dune grass is also extremely flammable and is, according to the Michigan State University Extension services, the number one wildfire threat along the Lakeshore.  Flame heights in dune grass can reach 10 to 20 feet and can quickly jump to wooden structures like stairs, decks, and to your home.
 
What can you do to minimize fire risk?  You can trim dune grass in February and March, and keep it away (5 to 10 feet) from your house.  Rake out dead leaves and twigs.  My best advice is this: if you must have a beach fire or set off a firework, have an east wind blowing so no sparks get in the grass.  Aim everything over the water.  For a fire, dig a sand pit, keep the fire small, and have water buckets nearby. Remember, make sure all fire is out, because smoldering embers in the sand can reignite.  Better yet, just use your grill for those roasted marshmallows.
 
As NSEA is in Spring Lake Township, and is in a Critical Dune designated area, regulations regarding fires and fireworks apply. In general, EGLE defers to local township ordinances for burning of brush, and Spring Lake Township requires a permit. However, burning of other items (construction materials, waste, trash, etc ) may be specifically covered by EGLE. You must refer to the regulations of each governing body.