Fire activity remains low: MNR

One new fire was confirmed Aug. 20 in the northeast region, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Bancroft 49 was a 0.1-hectare fire in the Weslemkoon Lake area that is now out.

MNR staff in the northeast region continue to work with local officials to manage Guelph 1, a 13.6-hectare fire burning in the Wainfleet Bog near Port Colborne. Excellent progress continues to be made on the fire, which is classed as being held.

There are currently 12 active fires in the northeast region, nine of which are being monitored — classed as being observed. Fires may remain under this classification when they are not receiving suppression action due to agency resource management objectives.

While fire activity is currently low in the region, British Columbia’s hot dry weather is contributing to an active fire situation and Ontario has responded to that province’s request for assistance.

Thirty-six MNR personnel departed on Aug. 19 for B.C., including eight FireRanger crews and incident management staff for planning, logistics, aerial operations and liaison. Firefighting equipment is also being shipped to assist in efforts.

The 12 active fires in the northeast region covers a total of 46,557.8 hectares. To date, 822 fires in the northeast region have burned 52,904.3 hectares.