On Sunday, April 28, a mulch fire occurred at the Wood Waste Recycle Center and McClure Construction and Gravel Yard in Grassy Creek. The incident, sparked by spontaneous combustion within a mulch pile placed too close to a stump pile, was fully contained after approximately four hours of concerted effort from multiple fire departments and forest services.
The process of spontaneous combustion in mulch piles involves the natural heat buildup that occurs when organic materials decompose. This heat can increase if the mulch is densely packed and not turned regularly, allowing temperatures to rise to a point where a fire can start without an external ignition source. Factors such as dry conditions, wind, and the type of organic material can exacerbate this heat buildup. In this instance, the close proximity of the mulch pile to the stump pile likely contributed to insufficient heat dissipation, leading to the fire.
Parkway Fire and Rescue, Spruce Pine Fire Department, Ledger Fire Department, the NC Forest Service, and Mitchell County wildland fire crews all collaborated in managing the blaze.
Andrew Brewer, Mitchell County Fire Marshall, praised the coordinated response.
“We had a great response and cooperation, and everyone worked together well,” said Brewer. Despite initial containment, the fire intensified again before being controlled by an active sprinkler system. The site continues to emit smoke and smolder.
County manager Allen Cook emphasized the county’s commitment to public safety.
“Our role is always to help the citizens of Mitchell County. It’s currently not a risk to surrounding residents,” said Cook. The county government is evaluating whether the business owner will face any liabilities or fines for the incident. Potential penalties could include being billed for the hourly cost of emergency services, though the specific legal aspects are still under review.
People who are particularly vulnerable to the health hazards of wildfire smoke — such as older adults, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with heart or lung conditions, including asthma — are strongly encouraged to stay indoors with windows and doors shut to limit smoke exposure. They should also avoid strenuous physical activities and make use of air conditioners equipped with clean filters to recycle indoor air. It is crucial for these groups to exercise extra caution during such conditions. Mulch smoke is considered a natural occurrence, similar to wildland smoke due to its organic nature.