Province Announces New Wildfire Suppression Resources for Labrador

The Newfoundland and Labrador government has announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening wildfire suppression capabilities and emergency response resources across Labrador.

The announcement was made by Forestry, Agriculture and Lands Minister Pleaman Forsey during a visit to Labrador West, where he was joined by Labrador West MHA Joe Power, Wabush Mayor Gertie Canning and Labrador City Mayor Jordan Brown.

As part of the initiative, the province will continue planning for infrastructure in Wabush to support a seasonal waterbomber presence in Labrador West, a move officials say will improve wildfire response capacity in the region.

The government is also providing $66,500 through the Fire Vehicles and Equipment Fund to support fire departments across Labrador with equipment purchases and upgrades.

Additional wildfire response resources will include the purchase of two dedicated structural protection units. The units will be stationed in Wabush and Happy Valley-Goose Bay and will be available for deployment throughout Labrador when communities are threatened by wildfire.

The province will also add six new wildland firefighter positions dedicated to Labrador, increasing local firefighting capacity during wildfire season.

Officials said work will continue with communities across the region to develop future projects under the Community Wildfire Prevention and Mitigation Program. The province noted that $150,000 has already been allocated for projects currently underway in Labrador City, Port Hope Simpson and Mary’s Harbour.

The measures are part of the Provincial Government’s ongoing efforts to improve emergency preparedness and protect communities as wildfire activity continues to pose challenges across parts of Labrador and other regions of the province.