Commissioners okay hike in burning fees

Farmers will see increased charges for agricultural burning beginning Jan. 1.

Whitman County commissioners Monday approved a new set of fees for ag burning in 2011 for Whitman and Palouse Conservation Districts. Two weeks ago, they approved increased fees for permits issued by the Rock Lake Conservation District.

Under a mutual agreement, the conservation districts issue and administer ag burning permits in Whitman County.

Field burning permits rose to $30, up from $27, for the first 10 acres. A charge of $3, up from $2.75, will be added for each acre in addition to the first 10.

Spot burning...