Jack Pine Budworm Infestation

The Ministry of Natural Resources says a jackpine budworm infestation inthe Kenora and Rainy River Districts over the past few years could pose a severe forest fire hazard in the next few years.

The MNR says in some areas, 90 to 100 percent of the jack pines have been killed off and are becoming an issue for fire crews.

Wildlife biologist, Scott Lockhart says the Auleneau Peninsula in Lake ofthe Woods has been particularly hard hit.

The MNR has been meeting with local municipalities to make them aware of the potential fire hazard and how they might need to respond if a major forest fire broke out in the region.