AERIAL FIREFIGHTING FLEET RENEWAL INVESTMENT ANNOUNCED

The Saskatchewan government is investing $42 million over the next four years to modernize its firefighting fleet for northern Saskatchewan.

"This renewal will both expand the fleet's capacity and improve its operational capabilities, helping to ensure the health and safety of people, in particular the people of northern Saskatchewan, and safeguard valuable commercial timber resources and property," Environment Minister David Forbes said. "This is a key commitment in building a green and prosperous economy."

Over the next four years, the province's land-based aircraft, used for initial attack on wildfires, will be replaced. Other supporting northern infrastructure, such as hangers, tarmac, aprons and runways will also be renewed.

The $42 million investment includes the purchase of at least four new retardent carrying land-based turbine airtankers and three twin-engine turbine guide aircraft. The long-term plan includes either upgrading or renewal of the province's six Canadair CL-215 amphibious aircraft.

"Our land-based fire suppression aircraft have more hours of service and need to be replaced first," Forbes said. "Our plan starts with the purchase of a light, fast-flying, twin-turbine-engine aircraft this winter."

"This investment is a clear demonstration of the commitment to sustainable management of Saskatchewan's forest resources," Council of Saskatchewan Forest Industries Executive Director Brock Folkerson said. "Our members will continue to work with Saskatchewan Environment to secure the long-term value of this important natural resource."

The Council is a non-profit organization representing forest companies that undertake about 90 per cent of the primary forest management and harvesting activities in the province.

Saskatchewan's fire suppression airtanker fleet plays a vital role in in the province's new fire management strategies which have been designed to:

· continue to protect what is most important to people;

· allow fire to play a more natural, regenerative role in the forest where possible; and

· improve our ability to manage the cost of the fire management program.

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For More Information, Contact:

Steve Roberts Environment Prince Albert Phone: (306) 953-2206