Natural Resources
October 2, 2009Official Fire Season
Ends; Residents Asked to Remain Vigilant
Newfoundland and Labrador residents are reminded that
the end of the official forest fire season should not
mean an end to being cautious when in the outdoors.
"As Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, we enjoy the
outdoors and many of our activities involve being in our
forests to hunt, hike and pick berries," said the
Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural
Resources and Minister Responsible for the Forestry and
Agrifoods Agency. "While the temperatures are cooler now
than during the official forest fire season, people
still need to remain vigilant and act responsibly while
enjoying the outdoors. We all have a role in protecting
our natural resources."
The 2009 forest fire season ended on September 30.
During this season, the department�s fire suppression
staff responded to 176 fires � 147 on the island portion
of the province and 29 in Labrador. Approximately 37,000
hectares of forest area were burnt � 36,500 hectares in
Labrador and 500 hectares on the island.
The number of forest fires this year is slightly
higher than average due to the dry conditions
experienced in the eastern region of the island in the
early part of the season.
The department had 117 seasonal forest firefighters
available throughout the province this season.
"I want to take this opportunity to commend our
forest fire suppression staff for their efforts and
dedication this season," said Minister Dunderdale. "Our
conservation officers also provided support when
required. These individuals are committed to the
protection of our natural resources and I congratulate
you all on another successful and safe fire fighting
season."
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Media contact:
Tracy Barron
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 690-8241
tracybarron@gov.nl.ca
2009 10 02 9:50 a.m.