Dates set for 2006 forest fire season

Natural Resources Minister Ed Byrne today used the start of the 2006 forest fire season on the island to remind people of the regulations governing the lighting of fires for camping or the clearing of land and burning brush.

The forest fire season on the island starts Friday, May 5, while the season for Labrador begins two weeks later on May 19. The forest fire regulations remain in effect until midnight of September 24.

"It�s important that all those who are active in our forests take responsibility for the resource and take the appropriate steps to reduce the risk of starting a forest fire," Minister Byrne said. "Our forests provide social, economic and cultural benefits to the people of the province and protection is a key component of forest management."

Minister Byrne is encouraging all users of the outdoors to be vigilant when in or near the woods by ensuring all fires are properly extinguished and the provincial forest fire regulations are followed.

"The forestry industry provides the most jobs and the most return to rural Newfoundland and Labrador than any other industry," the minister said. "This sector relies on the availability of a healthy and sustainable growing stock for the future stability of the industry and it is incumbent on all of us to be responsible when lighting fires near this resource."

During forest fire season, a Permit to Burn is required for lighting outdoor fires for the clearing of land or burning of brush within 300 metres of forest land. Permits and information about the forest fire regulations can be obtained at the regional or district forest management offices throughout the province. The lighting of fires for cooking and camping doesn�t require a permit, but forest fire regulations must still be followed.

Everyone should adhere to the following guidelines when lighting any fire:

Government recognizes the importance of effective fire protection to the province�s forest industry and is spending $460,000 this year to expand the fire suppression program in Labrador. This funding will be used by the forestry service for additional aircraft fire suppression during the height of the fire season. It represents an insurance policy for the future of the Labrador�s forests.

The department will have 108 seasonal forest fire suppression staff at its disposal this summer to fight fires throughout the province. Conservation officers will also be available to provide support.

The department will operate a fleet of six water bombers and four light helicopters during the forest fire season. Two water bombers will be located in Gander and one each in Deer Lake, St. John�s, Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Wabush. As in previous years, if extra firefighting resources are required, the department will avail of the Mutual Aid Resources Sharing Agreement (MARS) that provides for the sharing of firefighting resources among provinces.

Media contact: Tracy Barron, Communications, (709) 729-5282, 690-1703

2006 05 04                               11:55 a.m.