Elkhart County resident pushes for open burn ban amid health concerns

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- Despite exemptions allowing open burns in Elkhart County, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management advises against the practice due to health and environmental risks.

Bob Kronemyer, a long-time Elkhart County resident, has advocated for an open burn ban since the 1990s.

“It just takes one person to burn, and it really fouls up the whole atmosphere,” Kronemyer said.

He explained his frustration over the county’s lack of emphasis on environmental quality of life issues in 2024.

State regulations exist for open burns, but Kronemyer reached out to ABC57, voicing concerns about inadequate enforcement. As surrounding cities prepare for leaf pickup programs, Elkhart County lacks such a service.

In recent years, groups have been incentivized to collect leaves through a competition offering $50,000 in cash prizes. However, these groups are no longer accepting new residents, leaving many without access to the service. 

Burning five pounds of leaves can produce one pound of air pollution. Kronemyer hopes county officials will take substantial steps to reduce this pollution.

“I would hope community leaders will devote substantial time in consultation and come up with viable solutions, so we don’t have this burning going on, and it’s not limited to the fall,” Kronemyer said.

Residents in surrounding counties can bring their leaves to the local landfill for free, where they will be composted into topsoil.