Portions of North Dakota are experiencing abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions this summer. As producers work to cut and bale hay, hayfield fires are being reported.

“A simple spark from a sickle mower or hay rake contacting a rock can lead to a grass fire situation quickly,” says Tom Claeys, North Dakota state forester. “We’re experiencing an influx of grass fires, and with the amount of ‘fuel’ or biomass in the ditches, meadows and Conservation Reserve Program areas, it is substantial this year. There’s enough ‘fuel’ out there that can easily catch fire with just one spark and quickly become out of control.”

Timely hay equipment maintenance is key to preventing dangerous fires.

“A common cause of hayfield fires can be due to mechanical issues in equipment, such as a baler, with the roller bearings as the primary problem,” says Angie Johnson, North Dakota State University Extension farm and ranch safety specialist. “The roller bearings inside the baler can easily become damaged due to wear and extended use.”

Once bearings are damaged, they can become dangerously hot and start a fire inside the baler chamber.

As the haying season shifts to more mature, drier grasses and the baling of small-grain straw, these types of fuels can burn quickly and spread over a large area.

“We have to remember that there is a tremendous amount of friction and static that is building up during baling,” says Johnson. “That combination of friction and static electricity or a mechanical failure on the baler added to extremely dry hay or straw is the perfect recipe for a fire.”

To prevent baler-related fires this hay season, Johnson recommends conducting a visual assessment of the baler by walking around it when both the baler and tractor are shut off. Performing preventive measures, including daily maintenance during active use, can help producers keep their equipment in peak performance, reduce repairs and prevent equipment fires.

When assessing the rollers and belts inside the baler, the chamber door of the baler should be open.

“When performing maintenance inside the baler, always make sure the chamber door is in the lock position by manually shifting the lever to the lock position,” says Johnson. “By locking the chamber door open, you prevent the possibility of the chamber door closing on you if the hydraulics of the chamber door fail.”

During the visual assessment of the baler, while it is not in operation, Johnson suggests the following items to consider:

• Inspect bearings, chains, hydraulic hoses and belts for wear and replace worn parts.
• Remove excess net wrap and or twine pieces that may have accumulated around the rollers.
• Look for purple discoloration on the shields of the baler where the roller bearings are located, as this could be a sign of a “hot spot” on the baler. These “hot spots” are indicators that the bearing might be wearing out and needs to be replaced.
• Check for belts that may have become loose around the rollers. If a belt becomes too loose, it will start slipping on the rollers, causing friction. That friction can allow for dust particles, loose material and the bale developing inside the baler chamber to ignite.
• Lubricate chains, gears and bearings following the recommended lubrication instruction schedule from your baler’s operator manual. The baler's operator’s manual will provide the best maintenance schedule.
• Use an air compressor to blow dry matter, such as leaves, dust and plant stems, off the baler after every 50 to 75 bales.
• When refueling the tractor, do not overfill the fuel tank, as overflow fuel can have the potential to become ignited when operating in dry field conditions. Always shut off the engine and let it cool down before refueling.

An infrared heat thermometer is an inexpensive tool (usually $20 to $40) found at local farm and ranch supply stores, and it can help prevent baler fires.

“Using an infrared heat thermometer is a great tool to help monitor the temperature of your baler’s roller bearings,” says Johnson. “Take the time during a stretch break while baling to use the thermometer to check the temperature of your baler’s roller bearings. If you see a temperature spike with one or more bearings, it is time to stop and get the bearing replaced before your baler becomes damaged and catches fire.”

Hot exhaust systems on vehicles, ATVs and tractors can also cause a fire, especially when they come into contact with dry grass. Park equipment on mowed grass or on a dirt or gravel surface to avoid starting a fire.

Producers should also carry a fire extinguisher and ensure it is fully charged and working properly. During dry conditions, carry at least 5 gallons of water and a shovel or spade in case haying equipment sparks a small fire.  

In addition, producers should let others know their plans before going out to the field, so someone can check on them to make sure they are OK if they don’t return when expected. This also means carrying a fully charged cellphone.

In the event of a fire, call 911 immediately. Firefighters can help quickly contain the fire and reduce the extent of the damage.

As Johnson puts it, “A baler can be replaced. You can’t.”

NDSU Agriculture Communication – July 30, 2026

Source: Angie Johnson, 701-231-1873, angela.b.johnson@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu