Ministry appeals: Do not burn stubble and plant waste on fields

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management has reiterated its appeal to agricultural producers, strongly advising against the practice of burning stubble, harvest residues, and plant waste on or near their fields. The ministry emphasized that in current conditions, even the smallest flame can quickly escalate out of control.

Fires originating from agricultural plots can rapidly spread to adjacent crops, orchards, pastures, and forests. Such fires also pose a significant threat to agricultural machinery, economic buildings, and residential structures, endangering both property and human lives, the ministry stated in a press release. They reminded farmers that burning crop residue in open spaces is prohibited by law.

Beyond the immediate fire risk, the ministry highlighted the severe damage burning inflicts on agricultural land. The process destroys organic matter and beneficial microorganisms in the topsoil, thereby degrading soil structure and reducing its fertility. Instead of being treated as waste for burning, harvest residues can be returned to the soil through shredding and plowing. When conditions permit, these residues can also be utilized for composting, the ministry added.

The ministry called on farmers to exercise particular caution during fieldwork, ensuring their machinery is in proper working order and avoiding any actions that could generate sparks or initiate a fire. This appeal underscores the importance of responsible land management practices to prevent devastating wildfires and preserve the health and productivity of agricultural lands.