WENATCHEE — The state Department of Ecology on Tuesday banned all outdoor burning and the use of uncertified wood-burning stoves, inserts or fireplaces in Chelan, Douglas and Okanogan counties, until further notice.

Current weather conditions has resulted in stagnant air, and air quality monitors in Wenatchee and Twisp recorded moderate air quality, while those in Leavenworth and Okanogan registered air unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Certified wood stoves or pellet stoves are still allowed under the Stage 1 burn ban, and uncertified devices can be used only when they are the home’s only adequate source of heat.

The agency also recommends burning hot fires using only clean, dry wood. No excessive smoke is allowed from any wood-burning device after the initial 20 minute ignition.

The ban does not include the Colville Indian Reservation, where the U.S. Envirnomental Protection Agency has jurisdiction.

— K.C. Mehaffey, World staff