NLIS 3
October 15, 2001
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods) 

 

2001 forest fire season ends

The Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, Rick Woodford, announced today results of the province's 2001 forest fire season. Minister Woodford said it was a busy season in terms of fire starts, but the number of hectares burnt was below average. 

"A total of 197 forest fires were reported for the entire province and approximately 1,258 hectares of forest area were burnt, with 236 hectares being productive forest," said Minister Woodford. " The overall amount of hectares burnt was low compared to previous years and the main reason for this is we experienced fewer lightening- related fires in Labrador this year."

The minister pointed out that the 2001 season also saw a number of nuisance fires adjacent to several communities that placed additional demands on our fire suppression resources. 

"The threat to people and personal property due to forest fires this past summer was greater than usual," said Minister Woodford. "Accordingly, additional resources had to be implemented to ensure the protection of people, property and the forest resource, particularly during periods of extremely dry weather."

The minister acknowledged the work of the Newfoundland Forest Service staff during the 2001 forest fire season and their commitment to fire suppression. "The timely response of forest fire fighters was also a critical factor in avoiding personal injury and property damage during the season and I commend them for their efforts," said Minister Woodford. 

The forest fire season for the island portion of the province officially ended on September 16, while in Labrador the season ended on October 7. Of the 197 forest fires, 138 occurred in eastern Newfoundland, 36 on the west coast and 23 were reported in Labrador.

Media contact: Sonia Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

2001 10 15                           11:25 a.m.


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