A healthy and growing population of waterfowl on Prince Edward Island has led Environment Canada to extend the waterfowl hunting season, says Agriculture and Forestry Minister George Webster.

In 2013, the Rainbow Trout season has been extended from September 16th to October 31st on the Dunk, West, Souris, Valleyfield and Montague Rivers. Special Log Books are required. For a complete list of restrictions and requirements, see page 31 of the 2013 Angling Summary.

PEI's forest fire season extends from March 15th to the end of November. During this period all outdoor fires must be accompanied by a valid burning permit, conducted only under the proper burning conditions and burning only allowable materials. The most dangerous time for Island forest fires is the period from mid April to mid June. Recent warm dry weather has raised the Fire Weather Index, and it is expected to rise further is this situation continues

Over the last few years, many Islanders have planted trees to create hedgerows along farm fields and wind breaks around their homes and businesses to reduce heating costs and noise. The Shelterbelt/Buffer Zone planting program is still accepting applications for the 2013 planting season.

Untreated firewood, even small bundles, can quickly move harmful forest insects and disease pests from one region to another. This summer, please ask your friends, relatives and visitors from away to leave their firewood home and buy some when they get here.