Exciting news for outdoor enthusiasts! As of 4 p.m. today, September 18, travel and activity restrictions in the woods have been lifted across all counties in the area—except for Annapolis County.

The new freedom applies to a wide array of regions including Cumberland, Hants, Lunenburg, Kings, Queens, Shelburne, Digby, and Yarmouth counties. Previously, restrictions were eased in nine other counties earlier this month.

Why the delay in Annapolis County? Well, the region is still grappling with the Long Lake wildfire, making it crucial to maintain restrictions until at least October 15, marking the anticipated end of the wildfire season—unless conditions improve sooner.

Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton shared insights on the government’s decision, emphasizing, "We've been analyzing improving conditions while also considering the economic impact on businesses, which we aimed to minimize. It’s time to lift restrictions everywhere except Annapolis County."

However, don't grab your marshmallows just yet—the province-wide burn ban is still enforced, lasting until October 15 or until conditions enhance.

To put things in perspective, violating these critical woods restrictions or the ongoing burn ban could lead to hefty fines of up to $25,000.

Key Takeaways for Outdoor Adventurers!

• Access decisions are based on detailed data modelling that gauges the accumulation of dry, flammable materials—a key factor in preventing fires.

• The restrictions were initially imposed on August 5 through a proclamation under the Forests Act, after the province-wide ban on open fires began on July 30.

• If you have any questions about the restrictions, feel free to reach out to your local Department of Natural Resources office.

• In areas where restrictions are lifted, hunting season can proceed as planned. In Annapolis County, hunting in open, non-wooded spaces like fields is permitted, even if it requires a short trek down a trail.