Hunters are asked to use extra caution to prevent wildfires this season. (Government of Saskatchewan/Twitter)

By Trevor Redden

Fire Risk

Hunters asked to be fire aware this fall

Aug 27, 2020 | 12:00 PM

After a rainy start to the year across the province, things have dried out over the last month which has created an elevated wildfire risk as hunting season arrives.

As hunters head out on the land, they are being encouraged to be aware of potentially dangerous situations.

Darrell Crabbe, executive director of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, pointed out the respect that hunters need to show for land owners.

“The vast majority of hunters, first and foremost in our minds is making sure we don’t create an issue for landowners in the province. By their graces, we’re able to get out and enjoy our activities, so we just want people to take some extra precautions when they’re going out,” Crabbe said.

He encouraged all hunters to bring fire extinguishers with them, and be aware of potential hot spots beneath vehicles.

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“There’s always that risk when you pull off of roads and trails and go into tall grass, you could potentially start a fire that way. Anybody who smokes should be careful about that, and I think it’s just about taking every precaution you can and being aware of your surroundings,” Crabbe said.

As for the owners who allow hunters on their land, a potential wildfire could be extremely damaging.

General Manager of the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Chad MacPherson explained that fires on productive grazing land can have a negative impact for multiple years.

“There’s obviously the lost grass and grazing opportunities for this year, then infrastructure damage to fences, etc. Depending on the severity of the fire, it can take several years for the grass to return to regular production levels, which can be devastating to producers,” MacPherson said.

“We just want everybody to take extra care when they’re out there and enjoy themselves, and have a safe season.”

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trevor.redden@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @Trevor_Redden