NLIS 5
April 13, 2000
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

2000 forest fire season declared for Avalon Peninsula

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, announced today that the forest fire season for the Avalon Peninsula will commence as of midnight April 15, 2000 and remain in effect until midnight on the 17th of September 2000.

"Low snow cover during the winter in the Avalon region has resulted in Spring surface drying creating a potential forest fire hazard," said Minister Aylward. "Accordingly, the general public is advised to exercise extreme caution when burning or traveling on or near forest land to reduce the risk of forest fires."

In accordance with Forest Fire Regulations, the public are advised that during the forest fire season every person setting a fire for the purpose of clearing land or burning brush, slash, etc. on forest land or within 300 meters of forest land must obtain a permit to burn. The public is advised that they may apply for a permit to burn at the Paddy�s Pond Forest Management District Office. A copy of the Forest Fire Regulations is also available at this office.

"Forestry officials throughout the province are anticipating an earlier than usual forest fire season," said Minister Aylward. "Our officials will be monitoring weather conditions very closely in all parts of the province. The declaration of the forest fire season for other regions will be implemented when and where required."

The minister stressed that the province�s forest fire fighting capability is adequate to address any situations which may arise. Mr. Alyward said: "The normal contingent of four water bombers for the island portion of the province is currently in place. I am confident our officials are taking all the necessary precautions in preparing for the 2000 forest fire season."

Media contact: Cynthia Layden-Barron, (709) 729-6183, or fax: (709) 729-2076.

2000 04 13                                             3:15 p.m.