Woods Closed

It’s a sign of how serious the dry conditions are in Nova Scotia. The province has closed the woods. That means hiking, camping, vehicle use, and trail system access are not allowed within the woods. This ban is for both private and provincial crown land. Brief entry to the woods is okay, for example, short trails providing access from parking areas to beaches. However, other access and activities within woodland areas are discouraged. There is a total fire ban in the province. So far, seven fines have been handed out, and there is zero tolerance for any violations. The fine is $25,000. Nova Scotia has seen more than 100 small wildfires so far this year.  In the meantime, eight municipalities have issued mandatory water conservation orders. The province is not expecting rain over the next week. The Canadian Drought Monitor says the central region of the province is experiencing a mild drought.