The government of New Brunswick has issued a province-wide directive urging residents to avoid entering forested areas. Effective from 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, all Crown land is off-limits for activities like fishing, camping, hiking, and vehicular access. Additionally, forestry operations such as harvesting, forwarding, skidding, scarification, and chipping are prohibited.
During a news conference on Saturday afternoon, Premier Susan Holt emphasized the need for everyone to refrain from forest activities until conditions improve. The move comes in response to heat warnings issued by Environment Canada, with the hot and dry weather persisting in New Brunswick and other parts of Atlantic Canada.
While the restrictions primarily apply to Crown land, private landowners are encouraged to adhere to the same guidelines for safety reasons. Unlike Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, New Brunswick has not imposed heightened fines for breaching the regulations, with Premier Holt expressing hope that strict penalties won’t be necessary.
A wildfire near Miramichi, which started earlier in the week, has expanded significantly, prompting Natural Resources Minister John Herron to describe it as uncontrollable at the moment. The fire has grown from 160 hectares to around 240 hectares, posing a threat to nearby properties. Highway 8 near Miramichi, as well as Russellville Road and McHardy Road, are closed due to the fire, with authorities cautioning about the heightened fire risk given the dry conditions.
Officials stress the importance of adhering to the fire ban and maintaining vigilance to prevent any potential fire incidents. Residents are urged to have evacuation plans and emergency kits ready in case of emergencies. The entire province, including provincial parks, is under a burn ban to mitigate wildfire risks.
Premier Holt reiterated the significance of avoiding forest activities during this critical period, emphasizing that even a small spark can escalate into a significant fire hazard. The government continues to monitor the situation closely and urges residents to prioritize safety and compliance with the restrictions to prevent fire emergencies.