In the last seven days, there have been nine new wildfires across Nova Scotia, as reported by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). As of July 15, there are currently three active fires, and a total of 101 blazes have been extinguished this year, with 71.14 hectares of land burned.

The wildfire season is escalating, prompting the province to enhance its firefighting efforts with a new fleet of helicopters. The provincial government has introduced four Airbus H125 helicopters designed to assist in firefighting, search and rescue, scientific research, and the transportation of personnel and equipment.

After receiving nearly 10,000 name suggestions from the public, DNR has unveiled the names for the new helicopters, which are as follows:

• Spirit of the Osprey
• Spirit of the Eagle
• Spirit of the Hawk
• Spirit of the Falcon

Tory Rushton, the Minister of Natural Resources, emphasized the significance of these helicopters, stating, "These aircraft do serious work that keep Nova Scotians safe, especially during emergencies."

The helicopters were procured through a federal-provincial agreement specifically aimed at enhancing wildfire response capabilities. This agreement comprises a total investment of $12.6 million, with equal financial contributions from both levels of government.

Fighting Fires from the Skies

The newly acquired helicopters add to the province's effort to combat wildfires, which includes four contracted water bombers. These were announced as the wildfire season began. The government has entered into a $6.5 million contract with Forest Protection Ltd. of New Brunswick for four Air Tractor AT-802 water bombers and one Cessna Caravan Bird Dog. This contract runs until the end of September, with the option for extension if necessary.

The aircraft will be stationed at the Debert air tanker base in Colchester County from May 1 until the contract’s conclusion in September. Additionally, the province has employed three positions to support this temporary agreement. Notably, Nova Scotia lacks its own fleet of water bombers, relying instead on reinforced support from other provinces such as New Brunswick and Quebec.

Last year raised significant concerns within the community regarding the absence of fixed-wing water bombers as wildfires loomed near the Halifax Regional Municipality, particularly in Bayer's Lake.