This is National Forest Week in Canada, and speaking in the Legislature on Tuesday, provincial Agriculture and Forestry Minister Eric Hammill issued a warning about the hazards of wildfires. Ironically, the theme of this year's forest week is "Forest Fires: Handle With Care," and there have been at least eight forest fires in the province in the past several days. In his statement, the minister paid tribute to volunteer fire brigades and staff of the Forestry Division for their tireless efforts in battling the fires.
The minister also said the Prince Edward Island Forest Improvement Association, in cooperation with his department and the Department of Education, has distributed copies of a teachers' guide on forest fires to all Island schools. The Association is also sponsoring a contest to test Islanders' understanding of forests and is using Smokey the Bear to promote forest fire awareness.
"I believe that each of us should support the work of organizations such as the Forest Improvement Association to inform Islanders about our forest resources, and recognize the efforts of many Islanders who protect our homes and families from wildfires," said Mr. Hammill.
Forestry is the single largest resource in the province, accounting for about one-half of the total land area. The harvested value of forest products was around $27 million last year, and the industry employs more than 1000 people.