Controlled Burn Sparks Grass Fire in Rural Brookings County, Crews Contain Blaze to Under an Acre

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Brush fire burns in a scorched field under blue sky, thick smoke rising; Northeast Radio SD and Brookings sheriff badges visible.

Northeast Radio SD News – Brookings County, SD - A controlled burn that spread into nearby tall grass prompted a multi‑agency response Wednesday afternoon in rural Brookings County. According to a media release from the Brookings County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and firefighters from Brookings and Aurora were dispatched at 3:16 p.m. to a field near 473rd Avenue and 218th Street after a pile of burning trees ignited surrounding vegetation.

The fire quickly spread through the tall grass, but crews contained it to less than one acre, and damage estimates are still being compiled. The sheriff’s office says the incident underscores the importance of checking current burning conditions before conducting any outdoor burns.

Residents planning to burn brush or debris are urged to call Brookings County Dispatch at 605‑692‑2113 and consult with their local fire chief to ensure conditions are safe.

“It was reported the owner had been burning a pile of trees when the fire spread to a nearby tall grass where it quickly spread,” the release states.

No injuries were reported.

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Grass fire burns through a charred field, sending thick white smoke into a blue sky beside a utility pole.