Nova Scotia Criticized for Draconian Forest Ban Amid Severe Wildfire Risk
Nova Scotia's government faces backlash over a sweeping ban on outdoor activities in forests to curb human-caused fires as the province endures its second worst wildfire season on record.
Background
Facing its second worst wildfire season, Nova Scotia declared a ban on hiking, fishing and off-road vehicles in all forested areas. Violators risk fines up to C$25,000 and potential prosecution, enforced through a public tip line.
Government Justification
Premier Tim Houston cited official data showing that 97% of wildfires in the province are caused by human activity. With no rainfall since June, he described Nova Scotia as a "tinder box" and said the ban would remain until sufficient rain reduces the risk.
Legal Challenges and Public Debate
The Canadian Constitution Foundation criticized the measures as "safetyism" and "creeping authoritarianism." Meanwhile, military veteran Jeff Evely deliberately breached the ban to challenge it in court, receiving a C$28,872.50 fine. Some residents, including conservative commentators, have supported the ban as a necessary precaution.
Wildfire Impact
Canada's 2025 season marks the country’s second worst on record, with over 470 active blazes. Nova Scotia has averaged two fires a day in recent weeks, and last year's record season burned more than 25,000 hectares in the province.
Regional Responses
Neighboring provinces have introduced similar restrictions: New Brunswick barred public land use, and Newfoundland and Labrador banned off-road vehicles in forests, imposing fines up to C$150,000. Military and Coast Guard units have been deployed to support firefighting efforts nationwide.
Climate Change Context
While wildfires occur naturally, the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns that rising temperatures and prolonged droughts are increasing the frequency and severity of extreme fire weather.
The strict forest entry ban in Nova Scotia highlights the tension between public safety measures and individual freedoms during an escalating wildfire crisis.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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