The spring open-burn season continues in Mesa County, where open burning has long been part of rural living and agricultural operations in our community. Mesa County Public Health works to ensure this practice can continue safely while protecting something we all rely on: clean air.

Air quality is not only a community issue, but an economic one. Poor air conditions can affect employee health, customer comfort and overall quality of life, all of which contribute to a strong local economy.

“The Grand Valley is fortunate to enjoy excellent air quality. Maintaining that standard requires thoughtful balance,” MCPH Health Protection Division Director Sally Born said. “Our burn-permit process supports agricultural and property needs while minimizing air pollution and safeguarding public health.”

Spring open-burn season runs through April 30 for the city of Grand Junction, while areas outside city limits may burn through May 31. Open burning does require a permit. This system ensures burning occurs only under conditions that minimize impacts on neighbors, businesses and sensitive populations. In 2025, our team issued approximately 2,400 open-burn permits. This demonstrates how common and important burning remains across our county.

Burning isn’t the only option, as composting is often the better choice. Mesa County makes composting easy and accessible for everyone. The Mesa County Organic Materials Composting Facility accepts organic materials such as leaves, grass clippings, tree limbs, hay and straw from county residents.

“For those who do burn, safety is essential. Even with a permit, burning is not allowed during red-flag warnings, fire restrictions and air-quality advisories,” Born said. “People should always check conditions before burning. It is important that burn-permit holders take precautions to ensure their burn is supervised, safe and manageable. Having a permit does not give anyone permission to put someone’s property or safety at risk.”

Community members can sign up for health alerts on the Mesa County Public Health website at mesacounty.us/health to receive email notifications whenever a No Burn Advisory is issued. Real-time air-quality information is also available on the website.

Permits are still available through Mesa County Public Health. Residents and agricultural producers can apply through the online system and receive their permits by email. Applications are available in person at the Health and Human Services Building at 510 29 1/2 Road in Grand Junction. You also can call 970-248-6900 for help navigating the process.

Mesa County’s agricultural heritage and clean environment are essential parts of what makes our community strong. By working together and following responsible burning practices, we can continue to support local livelihoods while keeping our air healthy.

Sarah Gray is communication and marketing manager for Mesa County Public Health.