Governor Tim Pawlenty today issued an emergency executive order that authorizes the Minnesota National Guard to be available to assist in firefighting efforts in Northern Minnesota.

The following is the text of the Governor’s official order:

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 07-05
PROVIDING FOR FIRE SUPPRESSION ASSISTANCE
TO THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

I, TIM PAWLENTY, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and applicable laws, do hereby issue this emergency executive order:

WHEREAS, by April 29, 2007, the fire danger in the northern two-thirds of Minnesota had escalated to extreme; and

WHEREAS, continued dry conditions and high winds have put much of Minnesota into a Red Flag warning category; and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (“DNR”) and the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center (“MIFC”) have requested the availability of additional resources for providing air wildfire suppression; and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota DNR has requested that the Minnesota National Guard have equipment and personnel available on stand to assist as needed in fire suppression missions.

NOW, THEREFORE, I hereby order that:

1. The Adjutant General of Minnesota order to state active duty on or about April 29, 2007, in the service of the State, such personnel and equipment of the military forces of the State as required and for such period of time as necessary to assist and support air wildfire suppression in Northern Minnesota.

2. The Adjutant General is authorized to purchase, lease or contract goods or services necessary to accomplish the mission.

3. The cost of subsistence, transportation, fuel, pay and allowances of said individuals shall by defrayed from the general fund of the State, as provided for in Minnesota Statutes 2006, Sections 192.49, 192.52 and 192.54.

Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 2006, Section 4.035, Subdivision 2, this Order is effective immediately and shall remain in effect until such date as elements of the military forces of the State are no longer required.

 IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have set my hand this 7th day of May.