Dave Sullivan
Northern News Services

Fort Simpson (July 27/01) - Twenty forest fires have been spotted so far this year in a wide area bounded by the Yukon Border, Willow River to the east, the 60th parallel and north past Wrigley.

That compares to an average 60 to 70 fires per season. While the summer is only half over, foresters from the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development say the trend is toward a way below average forest fire season.

So far the biggest fire is just 1,350 hectares, or 13.5 square kilometres in size. That compares to a monster blaze in 1995 that swallowed up 2.6 million hectares of trees, says forestry technician Daniel Allaire.

This year's main blaze is not bothering anyone so officials are just keeping an eye on it rather than trying to snuff it out.

RWED is considering intervening in a fire near Trout Lake, because concerns are being raised by hunters, Allaire said.