The New Brunswick government has released a new multiyear wildfire management plan. Officials evaluated what worked and what needed improvement following a historic fire season last year. If you live in Saint John or anywhere in the province, this plan impacts how authorities keep your community safe.

Reviewing the Historic 2025 Season

New Brunswick recorded 444 wildfires in 2025. These fires burned about 3,400 hectares of forest. For context, the province saw an average of 326 wildfires burning 939 hectares annually between 1990 and 2024. An after action review found early detection methods worked well. Crews mobilized air and ground resources quickly and applied fire suppression strategies effectively. Fortunately, the province recorded zero wildfire injuries and zero structural losses during the 2025 season.

Clarifying Evacuation Rules and Equipment Movement

The review identified a few problems. Authorities noted that emergency responsibilities lacked clarity last year. Natural Resources Minister John Herron pointed to the authority for issuing evacuation alerts as a prime example.

“Who gives that actual cue to do the evacuations? We want to make sure that we formalized and made it crystal clear about who was responsible,” says Herron.

He clarified that the Department of Justice and Public Safety holds this responsibility. The review also calls for faster movement of equipment from local fire departments to areas needing the most resources during emergencies.

Human Activity Remains the Primary Cause

Human activity caused about 80 of the 2025 wildfires in New Brunswick. The review states that human activity remains the primary cause of fires in the province. However, low frequency fires caused by recreation, lightning, and industrial activities resulted in disproportionately larger burned areas. These fires often started in remote locations or under conditions that allowed them to grow before crews could fully mobilize. Despite the human element, Herron says the province does not plan to introduce heavier fines.

“New Brunswickers en masse want to do the right thing,” says Herron.

New Resources for the 2026 Season

The province announced several upgrades for the 2026 wildfire season. The government adds four amphibious water bombers to its fleet. Residents also get access to a new online information dashboard to track active fires. Additionally, the province converted 74 seasonal forest ranger positions into permanent year round roles. You can read the full details in the original report from CTV News.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many wildfires occurred in New Brunswick in 2025?

The province recorded 444 wildfires in 2025. These fires burned approximately 3,400 hectares of forest.

Who is responsible for issuing evacuation alerts in New Brunswick?

The Department of Justice and Public Safety holds the authority to issue evacuation alerts during wildfire emergencies.

What new resources are coming for the 2026 wildfire season?

The province is adding four amphibious water bombers, launching a new online information dashboard, and making 74 seasonal forest ranger positions permanent.

Will the government increase fines for starting wildfires?

No. Natural Resources Minister John Herron stated the province does not plan to introduce heavier fines at this time.