DJDC Warns of Fire Hazzard with Wood-based Mulch

JAMESTOWN – Jamestown is having problems with small fires starting in the wood mulch that is used in landscaping around shrubs throughout the city.  That’s according to Downtown Jamestown Development Corporation Executive Director Lee Harkness, who says the mulch around the Gateway Center building and the BWB building has caught fire and is becoming a regular problem, thanks to the hot, dry weather in recent days.  Harkness says the primary cause is cigarette butts being thrown into the mulch.  He adds the Jamestown Fire Department has responded to several calls already, and is encouraging businesses to switch to rubber mulch or stone mulch as an alternative to wood-based mulch.