Halifax

Woods ban eliminated in some parts of Nova Scotia

Some Provincial Forest Travel Restrictions Lifted, Others Remain

As of 4:00 PM on August 29, the provincial travel ban in the forest will be lifted in certain counties of Nova Scotia. This includes Halifax, Cape Breton, Richmond, Victoria, Inverness, Guysborough, and Antigonish.

However, officials have made it clear that the combustion ban is still in effect until October 15 or until conditions improve, even in the areas where the forest ban is being lifted. Several municipalities still prohibit traveling in any forest due to ongoing dry conditions. These include Pictou, Colchester, Cumberland, Hants, Lunenburg, Kings, Annapolis, Queens, Shelburne, Digby, and Yarmouth.

Prime Minister Tim Houston expressed his well wishes for Labor Day and hopes that the easing of restrictions will bring some relief to Nova Scotians.

Violating the forest ban in any of the 11 provinces will result in a fine of $25,000. The ban was initially put in place on August 5 due to drought conditions in the region. While some members of the public criticized the measure, the majority have supported it.

Jim Rudderham, director of Fleet Protection and Forest Management, reported that there have been 10 forest bans and nine charges for breaking the incineration ban in the past month. He emphasized the continued danger of open burning in the current conditions.

Drought Conditions Persist

For the provinces where the forest ban remains in effect, officials are closely monitoring conditions for any signs of improvement before considering lifting the ban. Extreme drought conditions have persisted in many parts of Nova Scotia, with minimal rainfall since June and high temperatures leading to dry fuels on the ground.

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Although some areas have seen recent rain and cooler temperatures, the overall drought situation remains severe, posing a high risk of natural fires. Efforts to contain the Annapolis County Blaze, particularly the Long Lake Lung Fire covering 8,234 hectares, are ongoing with firefighting teams working diligently.

Despite challenges, forecasted rain brings hope for better conditions ahead. Rudderham urged continued vigilance and readiness among crews to combat any potential fire threats.

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