The Forest Protection Act R-036-2023, issued on July 20, 2023, introduces crucial measures to mitigate the heightened risk of forest fires in the western part of the South Slave Region of the Northwest Territories. This declaration of a closed district is a response to an unusual danger expected to persist, driven by ongoing high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds that create conditions conducive to wildfires.

The area is facing an unprecedented risk of forest fires, as modeling forecasts indicate that these dangerous conditions are likely to continue, necessitating immediate and decisive action. Compounding this situation is the limited availability of firefighting resources, both locally and from neighboring jurisdictions, which are also contending with numerous active fires. The Forest Supervisor has highlighted the dangers posed to life and property due to hazardous vegetation, reinforcing the urgency for a protective response.

In exercising authority under the Forest Protection Act, the Forest Supervisor has implemented a range of prohibitions to minimize fire risks. The order establishes a “closed district,” which encompasses both public and private lands, effective immediately and set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on July 28, 2023. Certain areas, including Edéhzhie and Wood Buffalo National Park, are notably excluded from this closed status.

Specific activities prohibited within the closed district include any form of open fire, whether in fireplaces, fire pits, or camping areas. The order also bans the discharge of firearms using tracer or incendiary ammunition, along with the use of fireworks, firecrackers, and exploding targets. Additionally, the use of sky lanterns and the ignition or launch of flare devices or pyrotechnic bear bangers are restricted.

While the order imposes strict limitations, it allows for certain exceptions. Activities conducted in the exercise of Aboriginal or treaty rights are not subject to these restrictions. Moreover, the prohibitions do not apply to authorized personnel engaged in firefighting or prescribed burns to manage existing fire threats, nor to individuals responding to specific emergencies, such as suspected anthrax contamination.

The order outlines significant penalties for violations, reflecting the seriousness of the fire hazard. Offenders may face fines ranging from a minimum of $25 to a maximum of $1,000, with the possibility of imprisonment for 30 days to two years, or both. This strict enforcement aims to deter actions that could worsen the fire risk, highlighting the necessity of public cooperation in safeguarding the region.

The R-036-2023 represents a proactive measure in the face of an imminent wildfire threat. By declaring a closed district and implementing stringent regulations on fire-related activities, the Northwest Territories seeks to protect its residents and natural resources.

Northwest Territories (R-036-2023) July 30, 2023